Ultimate Guide to 20% vs. 35% Window Tint: Laws, Costs, and Benefits

Applying window tint to your car is an excellent way to maintain privacy while on the road. A vehicle with a 35% tint offers moderate seclusion, though passersby can still peek inside. In contrast, a 20% tint provides a much darker, more private appearance.

What’s the Difference Between 20% and 35% Window Tint?

Many new car owners consider adding window tints to their vehicles right after purchase. There’s something satisfying about shielding yourself from the outside world, allowing you to relax in the comfort of your car or truck.

With tinted windows, you’re free from prying eyes, letting you enjoy your favorite tunes or have a private conversation without judgment.

However, overly dark tints can make it challenging to see clearly while driving, especially at night. Additionally, various U.S. states have regulations that limit how dark window tints can be.

Which Is Better: 35% or 20% Window Tint?

The primary distinction between a 20% and a 35% window tint lies in the amount of tint applied to the glass.

If you’re unfamiliar with window tinting, you might assume that a 35% tint is darker than a 20% tint. This is a common misconception.

In reality, window tint percentages work inversely. A 20% tint is significantly darker than a 35% tint. The percentage refers to the amount of light that can pass through the window.

For instance, a 35% tint allows 35% of sunlight to penetrate the glass, while a 20% tint permits only 20% of light to pass through.

However, a 20% tint may be too dark in some regions. In certain U.S. counties, even a 30% tint is considered too dark. The most widely accepted tint level is typically around 35%.

These regulations generally apply to standard passenger vehicles. Limousines, however, are often allowed to have darker tints.

Who Can Apply Window Tint to My Car?

Window tinting isn’t a service typically offered by standard auto mechanics. You may need to seek out specialized tinting services. Some vehicles have pre-treated windows that may not be compatible with additional tinting.

Fortunately, this is rare for most mass-produced vehicles. Generally, you can apply tint to the windshield, side windows, rear window, and rear side windows.

What Window Tint Levels Are Illegal?

In the United States, window tint laws vary by state, city, or even town, dictating which vehicles can have tinted windows and to what extent.

A police officer may require you to remove your window tint if they believe it impairs visibility, even if the tint complies with local laws or if no specific law exists.

For example, in California, passenger vehicles are permitted to have window tint, but the top 4 inches of the windshield must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.

This regulation applies to all cars sold in California, ensuring that 70% of incoming light is transmitted through the window.

If you’ve rented a car in California, you might have noticed a subtle blue or gray tint at the top of the windshield, designed to block intense sunlight during peak hours.

California’s window tinting law was enacted in 1999 to balance privacy and safety.

In Nevada, front side windows must have a tint that allows at least 35% of light to pass through. A 30% tint, which permits less light, would be illegal.

Rear side windows, however, can have any level of tint without restriction.

Given the variation in tinting laws across the U.S., always check local regulations before tinting your vehicle’s windows.

Non-compliant tint levels can result in fines or mandatory removal of the tint.

In some cases, if a police officer determines that your tint compromises driving safety, you may need to remove it, similar to restrictions placed on some elderly drivers with vision concerns.

Vehicle owners with non-compliant tint may need to appear in court to defend their case. If a judge orders the tint’s removal, compliance is mandatory.

How Much Does Window Tinting Cost?

The cost of tinting a vehicle’s windows can range significantly, typically between $50 and $1,000. Several factors influence the price:

• Window size
• Type of tint material (e.g., ceramic or dyed tint)
• Whether the tint is scratch-resistant
• Number of windows being tinted
• Availability of a warranty
• Local state regulations

Dyed window tint is often the most affordable option, but it’s prone to bubbling and scratches, which can affect its longevity.

Carbon window tint, while more expensive, offers superior benefits. It blocks more light at the same tint level and helps keep the vehicle’s interior cooler.

Read also: Can You Use AC After Window Tinting?

Conclusion

A 20% window tint blocks more light than a 35% tint. The tint percentage works inversely, with lower numbers indicating darker tints.

Before tinting your vehicle, familiarize yourself with local laws regarding permissible tint levels. Tinting costs can vary from $50 to $1,000, depending on various factors.