Under Florida law, tint on the front side windows must let in at least 28 percent of visible light and reflect no more than 25 percent. Windows behind the driver must let in at least 15 percent of light on a regular passenger car, or at least 6 percent on a multipurpose passenger vehicle, and reflect no more than 35 percent. Tint on the windshield is allowed only as a transparent strip along the top that stays out of the driver's direct forward view. A violation is a noncriminal, nonmoving traffic infraction. People with certain medical conditions can apply for an exemption certificate. The details below come from the Florida Statutes; confirm the current text before you tint.
The limits window by window
Two terms appear throughout. Light transmittance, often called VLT, is the percentage of visible light that passes through the glass and film together. Lower numbers mean darker tint. Reflectance is the percentage of visible light the window reflects, which makes it look mirrored. Florida limits both.
| Window | Minimum light transmittance | Maximum reflectance | Statute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Only a transparent strip along the top, not encroaching on the driver's direct forward view (the AS/1 portion defined in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205) | Not specified beyond transparency | Section 316.2952 |
| Front side windows (driver and front passenger) | 28% | 25% | Section 316.2953 |
| Rear side windows, passenger car | 15% | 35% | Section 316.2954 |
| Rear window, passenger car | 15% | 35% | Section 316.2954 |
| Rear side and rear windows, multipurpose passenger vehicle | 6% | 35% | Section 316.2954 |
Reflectance is measured on the nonfilm side of the glass, according to the statute text. Light transmittance for the windows behind the driver is tested on the rear window glass.
What counts as a multipurpose passenger vehicle
The lower 6 percent limit for rear windows applies to multipurpose passenger vehicles. In federal vehicle classifications, that category generally covers many SUVs and minivans, while ordinary sedans and coupes are passenger cars. Classification can be less obvious for crossovers, wagons and some trucks. The manufacturer's certification label, usually on the driver's door jamb, normally states the vehicle type. If in doubt, assume the stricter 15 percent limit applies until you have confirmed otherwise.
Other rules in the same sections
- Nontransparent rear window. If the rear window is covered or treated so that it is not transparent, the vehicle must have outside mirrors on both sides that meet the state's mirror requirements.
- Perforated material. Perforated film on the windows behind the driver must let in at least 30 percent of light and reflect no more than 35 percent on average, with no section above 50 percent.
- Louvers. Louvered material behind the driver is allowed if it reduces the driver's visibility by no more than 50 percent.
- Curtains and blinds. Privacy drapes, curtains or blinds behind the driver are allowed only if they are open and secured while the vehicle is driven on a public road.
Medical exemption
Section 316.29545 allows the state to issue a medical exemption certificate to people with lupus, any autoimmune disease, or other medical conditions that require limited exposure to light. The certificate allows window treatment that would otherwise break the limits above. According to the statute, it lists the vehicle's make, model, year and VIN, the exemption decal number and the registered owners' names. It is not transferable and becomes void when the vehicle is sold or transferred. A fee may apply. The application process is handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, so check its current procedure and keep the certificate where you can show it if stopped.
Penalties
A violation of the tint rules is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation under chapter 318 of the Florida Statutes. The exact fine depends on the county and current schedules, so check with the clerk of court if you receive a citation. Even though it is not a moving violation, an officer can stop a vehicle for tint that appears too dark, and a meter reading at the roadside settles the question.
Practical advice before you tint
- Remember factory glass. Many vehicles come with lightly tinted glass from the factory, especially on rear windows of SUVs. Film adds to that. A film labeled 30 percent on top of factory glass can produce a combined reading below 28 percent.
- Ask for a meter reading. A reputable installer can measure the combined transmittance of glass and film and should be willing to show you the reading.
- Ask about reflectance. Mirror-like films can exceed the reflectance limits even when they are light enough.
- Keep the paperwork. A receipt that states the film product and shade helps if questions arise later.
- Consider heat rejection, not just darkness. Some lighter ceramic films reject a large share of heat without being very dark, which can be a good fit with Florida's limits. Compare the manufacturer's specifications.
- Bringing a car from another state. Tint that was legal elsewhere may not be legal in Florida. Check it soon after you register the vehicle here.
Tint and car care
Window film helps protect the interior from heat and fading, which matters a great deal in this climate. The guide on protecting the interior from heat, humidity and mold covers other ways to keep the cabin cool. When cleaning tinted windows, follow the installer's instructions: avoid ammonia-based glass cleaners and abrasive pads, and wait the recommended curing time before rolling windows down or cleaning the inside of new film. If you hire a detailer, mention that the car has film; a careful provider will already know to use a film-safe glass cleaner. See how to choose a mobile detailer for other questions worth asking, and sun damage to car paint for protecting the outside.
The statute text is published by the Florida Senate: section 316.2953 covers the front side windows, and the neighboring sections cover the windshield, rear windows and medical exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in Florida?
For front side windows, the film and glass together must let in at least 28 percent of light. Behind the driver, the minimum is 15 percent for passenger cars and 6 percent for multipurpose passenger vehicles. Reflectance limits also apply.
Can I tint my windshield in Florida?
Only a transparent strip along the top of the windshield that does not encroach on the driver's direct forward viewing area. Full windshield tint is not allowed without a medical exemption.
Is 20 percent tint legal on front windows in Florida?
No. The front side windows must let in at least 28 percent of visible light, so a 20 percent combined reading would be too dark.
Is a window tint ticket a moving violation in Florida?
No. The statutes classify it as a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation. The fine depends on local schedules.
Who qualifies for a medical tint exemption?
The statute covers people with lupus, any autoimmune disease or other medical conditions that require limited exposure to light. The exemption certificate is tied to a specific vehicle and becomes void when the vehicle is sold.