Florida allows window tint on front side windows only if it lets at least 28% of light through
Florida's window tint law is straightforward for the front of your vehicle but permissive for the rear. The darkness of window tint is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT) — the percentage of light allowed through the glass. For passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks, the front side windows must allow at least 28% of light through. The rear side windows and rear window can be any darkness. The windshield can have a tint strip along the top, but only above the manufacturer's AS-1 line (the line marked on most windshields).
If your tint does not meet these standards, law enforcement can cite you. The citation is a non-moving violation, meaning it does not add points to your driving record, but you will be required to remove or lighten the tint to avoid fines.
Key Takeaways
- Front side windows in Florida must allow at least 28% light through; rear windows have no darkness limit.
- The windshield can only be tinted above the AS-1 line, which is usually marked by the manufacturer near the top.
- Window tint darkness is measured by VLT percentage, and you can ask a tint shop to measure your windows before installation.
- A citation for illegal tint is a non-moving violation but requires you to remove the tint and may result in a fine.
- Some medical conditions may allow an exemption, but you must obtain a written statement from a licensed physician and carry it in your vehicle.
How VLT percentage works and why it matters
VLT is the standard measurement used across the United States to determine tint darkness. A 28% VLT means 28% of visible light passes through the glass, and 72% is blocked. The lower the VLT number, the darker the tint. A 5% VLT is nearly opaque; a 70% VLT is barely noticeable.
When you visit a tint shop, ask them to measure the VLT of any existing tint or to confirm the VLT of the tint they plan to install. Many shops have light meters that can read the exact percentage. This measurement is your protection — if you have documentation that your tint meets the 28% standard for front windows, you have a defense if stopped.
Keep in mind that tint darkness can change over time. Tint can fade, bubble, or peel, which may alter its light-blocking properties. If you have had tint installed for several years, a shop can re-measure it to confirm it still meets the legal standard.
Medical exemptions and how to obtain one
Florida law allows a medical exemption for window tint that would otherwise be illegal. The exemption applies to people whose medical condition requires protection from sunlight — for example, certain skin conditions, lupus, or severe photosensitivity.
To obtain an exemption, you must have a licensed physician (MD or DO) examine you and provide a written statement on their letterhead. The statement must describe your medical condition and explain why you need darker tint. You must carry this statement in your vehicle at all times. If you are stopped, you can show the statement to the officer.
The exemption does not give you unlimited tint darkness. You still must be able to see out of the windows well enough to drive safely. The statement should specify what VLT level your condition requires. If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies, discuss it with your physician before requesting the statement.
What happens if you are cited for illegal tint
If a law enforcement officer stops you and determines your tint is darker than the legal limit, you will receive a citation under Florida Statute 316.2003. This is a non-moving violation, meaning it does not add points to your driving record, but you are still required to correct the violation.
The typical fine ranges from $100 to $150, though the exact amount can vary by county and whether you have prior violations. More importantly, you must remove or lighten the tint within a set timeframe — usually 30 days. Some officers may give you a warning instead of a citation, especially if it is your first offense.
If you do not correct the tint within the required time, you can receive additional citations. If you are cited again for the same violation, the fines increase. The best course of action is to visit a tint shop when ready after receiving a citation and have the tint removed or replaced with a legal darkness level.
Tint shops and how to verify they follow Florida law
Professional tint shops in Florida are familiar with state law and can install tint that meets the 28% VLT requirement for front windows. Before choosing a shop, ask whether they measure VLT and whether they can provide documentation of the measurement after installation.
Some shops offer a warranty that the tint they install is legal. This is useful because it means the shop takes responsibility if the tint is found to be too dark. Ask for a receipt that includes the VLT percentage of the tint installed — this document can protect you if you are stopped.
Be cautious of shops that advertise "darkest legal tint" or claim they can install tint "right up to the limit." These shops may be cutting it close, and tint can fade or shift slightly over time. A safer approach is to choose a tint that is slightly lighter than the legal minimum, giving you a buffer.
Differences between passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks
Florida law treats passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks the same way. The front side windows on all vehicle types must allow at least 28% light through. The rear side windows and rear window on all vehicle types can be any darkness.
The windshield rule also applies equally: any vehicle can have a tint strip above the AS-1 line. Some drivers assume that trucks and SUVs have more lenient tint rules, but this is not the case. A truck with 20% VLT front windows is just as illegal as a car with 20% VLT front windows.
If you own multiple vehicles, make sure each one complies with the same standard. If you move a tint from one vehicle to another, have it re-measured to confirm it still meets the 28% requirement.
How to measure your current tint or check before you buy
If you already have tint on your vehicle and want to know whether it is legal, visit a tint shop and ask them to measure it with a light meter. This service is usually free or costs a small fee. The shop will give you a reading that tells you the exact VLT percentage.
If you are shopping for a new vehicle and want to know whether the factory tint is legal, ask the dealer or manufacturer. Many vehicles come with factory tint on the rear windows that is darker than 28%, which is legal. The front windows on factory-tinted vehicles are usually light enough to meet the 28% standard, but you can ask the dealer to confirm.
If you are considering having tint installed, ask the shop to show you samples of 28% VLT tint so you can see how light it is. Many people are surprised by how light legal tint appears. This visual check can help you decide whether you want to proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have dark tint on my rear windows in Florida?
Yes. Florida law does not restrict the darkness of tint on rear side windows or the rear window. You can have 5% VLT or even complete blackout tint on these windows. The 28% limit applies only to the front side windows.
What is the AS-1 line on the windshield?
The AS-1 line is a marking on most windshields that indicates the boundary between the area that must remain clear for visibility and the area above it. You can tint the windshield only above this line. The line is usually located a few inches below the top of the windshield.
Will a tint citation affect my insurance rates?
A non-moving violation for illegal tint typically does not affect your insurance rates because it does not add points to your driving record. However, if you accumulate multiple citations or if the citation is combined with other violations, your insurer may review your record. Check with your insurance company if you are concerned.
Can I get a medical exemption for any reason?
No. A medical exemption requires a written statement from a licensed physician explaining a specific medical condition that requires darker tint. Cosmetic preferences, privacy concerns, or general sun sensitivity are not sufficient grounds for an exemption. Your physician must document a medical need.
How long does window tint last before it needs to be replaced?
Quality window tint typically lasts five to ten years, depending on the type of tint, the climate, and how well the vehicle is maintained. Over time, tint can fade, bubble, or peel. If your tint has been on your vehicle for many years, have it re-measured to confirm it still meets the 28% standard.