Is Window Tint legal?

At Car Bro’s Detailing, we focus on installing high quality window tints for all kinds of vehicles. One of the questions I get the most from clients is, “Is window tint illegal in Florida?” It’s a fair question, especially here in Tampa where the sun and heat are constant.

The short answer is no, tint isn’t illegal — as long as you follow the state limits. In Florida, window tint is measured by something called Visible Light Transmission, or VLT. That’s the percentage of light that passes through the film and glass combined. The lower the number, the darker the tint.

For most vehicles, Florida law allows a minimum of 28% VLT on the front windows and 15% on the rear and back windows. SUVs can go even darker in the back, down to around 6%. The windshield can only have a non-reflective strip above the AS-1 line, which is that small mark near the top of your glass.

I usually recommend my clients go with a 35% ceramic tint. It gives you great heat rejection, UV protection, and privacy without going too dark. It also keeps you within legal limits, so you don’t have to worry about fines or getting pulled over.

Another thing worth knowing is that Florida limits how reflective your tint can be. The front windows can’t reflect more than 25%, and the rear ones can go up to 35%. Reflective or mirror-like films may look sharp, but if they go past those limits, they’re considered illegal. Colored tints like red or blue aren’t allowed either.

If you’ve ever seen a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb, that’s there to show the tint meets state requirements. Every professional tint shop should include it — it’s a small detail, but it matters.

There are some exceptions to the rules, though. People with certain medical conditions, like light sensitivity, can apply for a medical exemption that allows darker tint. That requires documentation from a licensed physician and must be registered with the state.

So, is window tint illegal? Not at all — it just depends on how it’s done. The key is finding a shop that knows the laws and installs film that’s both compliant and effective.

At Car Bro’s Detailing, we make sure every installation not only looks clean and professional but also meets Florida’s legal standards. Our goal is to give you heat protection, privacy, and style while keeping your vehicle fully compliant on Tampa’s roads.