Tint FAQs

Curious to learn how long automobile window tinting may take?

If you are about to tint your windows for the first time, you will want to have an idea of how long it could take to tint your windows.

How Long Does it Take to Tint Windows?

The short answer is that on average a typical four-door sedan takes around 2 hours to tint all four windows. The tinting procedure for large cars, such as SUVs or minivans, might take anywhere from four to six hours.

It is also worth mentioning that some smaller vehicles may need even more time than SUVs.

This happens because they may have larger windows or the vehicle itself is so compact that it leaves little room for the tinting professional/installer to complete the job.

The time it takes to tint windows can vary, and if you want to forecast the length of a tint job, you need to understand the elements that play a role:

Factors Influencing How Long It Takes To Tint Windows:

Each of the variables listed below can either speed up or slow down the window tinting process.

The Amount of Window Surface Area

As a rule of thumb, the more surface area you need to cover (tint) means more time is needed to complete a job. Simply said, if you have wider/larger windows to tint, you should expect the tinting process to take longer.

For example, a truck or van window is usually larger, taking longer to tint. When it comes to residential or commercial business building windows, this is also true.

The Number of Windows

The number of windows that need tinting is another obvious variable that can increase or decrease the tinting time.

So, if you have more windows to tint, the entire project will likely take longer. In the case of a 6-window suburban SUV, tinting takes longer than if the car has only two windows needing tint (think mini-cooper coupe).

Type of Film

The type of tint film being used will also determine how long it may take to tint your windows.

Some high-quality tint films are easier to handle, for example, pre-cut films will go on much quicker than tint rolls that need to be cut & trimmed to the size of the individual window.

So if you plan to tint your car windows yourself, it is suggested to use pre-cut films. This will help in two ways: completing the job correctly and in a shorter amount of time.

The Uniqueness of Window Shape

Vehicles come in different sizes, shapes, and styles. Any window with complex curves and shapes is going to take longer to complete since it can be more challenging to handle.

If you think that your automobile windows are odd-shaped or have a unique style, you should add more time than usual.

The Need to Remove the Old Tint

Unless it is a factory window tint, you will need to remove the old window tint before applying any new tint. This extra step can take anywhere between 1- 4 hours depending on the experience level of the person removing the tint.

So if you already have tinted your windows, expect that the professional will be spending some time peeling tint away, before applying the new film.

DIY or Professional

Professionals are more skilled in their field and are better equipped to complete the task. They will often be quicker to finish a typical window tinting job than someone handling it as a DIY job.

Because you’re a Do-It-Yourselfer, you may end up reviewing each step two or three times before attempting to complete it.

How Long Does it Take to Tint 2 Windows?

On average, most people just tint the back two windows and have two front windows left at factory settings. If this is the case for you, you can expect the project to take about thirty to forty-five minutes via a professional tint installer. But again, if these are non-traditional windows, it can take longer.

How Long Does It Take a Professional to Tint a full Car Window?

Most professional window tinting takes around two hours for a sedan. You might need to allocate more time if you have a minivan or SUV.

It can vary a bit depending on the number of windows you are opting to tint.

Professionals are constantly tinting windows and are experienced in doing so swiftly and effectively. The chances for mistakes are reduced compared to a DIYer project.

Professionals also understand the technicalities of working with specific window types and materials, which is why they can complete projects faster.

How Long Does it Take to D-I-Y Tint Car Windows?

If you are a DIY enthusiast, you may find car window windows projects entertaining. However, a DIY tinting project might take a few hours longer, about 3-4 hours on average for the whole car glass.

Recent research also shows that as a DIY project, you can tint your car windows at an average pace of 30 minutes per window.

Even in the case of DIY window tinting, a reasonable amount of skill, product knowledge, and tools is important for success. Tinting tools such as a heat gun can make things easier for you and help you install the window film proficiently.

How Long After Tinting to Roll Down Windows?

This depends on your window tint cure time or otherwise called window tint drying time.

After you get your windows tinted, you should not roll down the tinted windows immediately after applying the tint film. This is because the film adhesive needs time to completely dry out.

During this curing time, again many things can either shorten the drying time or prolong it. For example;

1. The type of tint that you are using. Take the case of ceramic tint which may take 4-10 days in drying time because these films are denser and need more time to cure.
2. The temperature, humidity, and current season play a role in determining when you can roll down your windows.

So for example, in winter with low humidity, you may have to wait for 2 to 4 weeks for the window tints to completely dry out.

But in summer, the window tint curing process can take as little as three to four days because of high temperatures. For more details, check out this article.

What Time of the Year is Best for Windows Tinting?

Most car window tinting professionals suggest that the spring and summer seasons are best for window tinting projects since you will have more sunny days, higher temperatures, and humidity levels.

Conclusion

Summing things up, the window tinting can take between 2 and 4 hours on average to complete, but this time may vary depending on the conditions described above.

The Different Types of Window Tint Films, Explained

Each car is different, each driver is different, and each climate is different. That means that your preferred type of window tint film will be different, too.

Review the types of tint films on the market, and compare them against your own needs. This will help narrow down the best type of film for your car and ensure you have a good experience with the film you choose.

Are there different types of window film?

There are five basic kinds of window tinting film.

The main types of car window tint include:

1. Carbon Tints
2. Ceramic Tints
3. Dyed Tint
4. Hybrid Tint
5. Metalized Tints

Each style of window tint film has pros and cons.

Now that we know about the kinds of window tints that exist, let’s take a look at each of the tint types.

What are the different types of window tint?

Read about each type of window tint film below.

Carbon Window Tints

Carbon tint is often applied as a window tint as an aesthetic choice. It has a matte finish so creates a unique style for your automobile. Carbon tint is good for reducing the entry of infrared light into your car.

The carbon film is one of the darker options when it comes to window tint. This makes it useful for limiting UV rays from damaging your car’s interior.

Ceramic Window Tint

The ceramic films for auto tinting are the top quality when it comes to window tints for your car. Ceramic window tints absorb light which results in excellent visibility regardless of the shading level of the ceramic window film.

The particles in ceramic tinting are ceramic particles (not metal) so the ceramic tint can reduce heat in a way that metallic tint film cannot.

Dyed Window Tint film

Dyed window tinting is almost exclusively for aesthetics. Dyed films provide a dark level of shade, and increase privacy, but the dyed film as a window tint doesn’t do the best job of minimizing heat or reducing glare.

Dyed tinting is multilayered including an adhesive layer that is applied directly to the automobile windows, while the outside offers a scratch-resistant quality.

Dyed tints or dyed films are a popular choice for car window tinting because although they are not incredibly functional for useful purposes, they do provide some privacy and shade inside the vehicle and improve the look of your vehicle, too. Another benefit of dyed film window tint is that it is affordable.

Hybrid Tint

Hybrid films for car window tints are a great option because, as the name implies, hybrid window tints are the best of both worlds.

This type of window tint film combines both metalized tint and dyed tint which makes it a great option for car tint. Tinted window switch hybrid film does a good job of blocking out heat from the car’s interior, while also creating privacy and a sleek look for your car.

Metalized Tint

Metalized window tints contain metallic particles within the metalized film. These metal particles serve to block UV light, protect car windows, and tend to be very durable.

Metalized tinting has a strong reflective quality due to these metal particles, so when it comes to appearance, metallic window tints may create a different look than drivers prefer. However, metalized window tinting does offer shatter-proof protection to auto windows, so it could be the best option.

What are the differences in the film types for car window tinting?

When choosing between metalized tint films, hybrids, dyed window tint, ceramic window tinting, and carbon film it’s important to know what your unique window tint needs are because what is good for window tinting on your car, may not be the best car window tinting option for others.

A few things to consider when selecting the right window tint film type for your vehicle:

• Do you want a matte finish?
• Are the tinted windows for aesthetic purposes or functionality?
• Which types of car windows will you be tinting, like the rear side windows?
• Is it important for you to block heat? or UV Rays
• Will you be applying car window tint as commercial window tinting to a work vehicle?

These questions can help you determine if the ceramic film and ceramic tinting are most sensible for your automobile versus dyed film, or metalized window tint.

That’s because some options like metalized tinting may block UV rays, while others like a crystalline window tint will be better for blocking heat.

How do different window tints help in different types of weather?

The good news for drivers in different locations, window tints can make a difference depending on the weather.

Metalized window tint is a great option for intense weather because it is both durable, and doesn’t fade. Since metalized tints block heat, they could also be useful in hot climates.

The adhesive layer of car tint, no matter which types of car window tint are applied, offers benefits.

Some benefits of auto window tinting include:

• Filtering out UV light (this helps to block UV radiation)
• Limiting penetration of light rays and solar heat
• Blocking heat from entering the car interior (keeping as much heat out as possible)
• Preventing excessive infrared light entry

Basically, the darker the tint, the more likely it is that UV rays are blocked.

Is there a good type of tint for privacy or safety?

On the other hand, opting for a dyed tint produces great privacy. If you tend to use cell phones in your car, especially in a state where cell phones are not permitted while driving, this could add a layer of protection.

The best kind of window tint for your car

Automobile window tint comes in a few different types and many different shades.

The best window tint will vary depending on which type of car you have, the aspect of vehicle tints that are most important to you, and the aesthetic style you want to achieve. Most types of car window tint films are applied to the car’s interior windows in a thin layer.

Most types of window films come in a wide spectrum of shade levels from a clear tint to a darker tint. Be sure to check your local tint laws to determine which tint shade on your car windows will be acceptable.

How Long Does It Take To Tint Windows?

Car Window Tint Drying Time

You’ve just had your car windows tinted, you hop inside, turn on the radio, and want to take your car around town.

Usually, your next move is to roll the windows down, hang your arm outside, and take pride in your car’s new aesthetic improvement.

But wait..! 

How long does it take until you can safely roll your windows down?

Remember that after you install window tint, you will have to wait, at a minimum, 36 hours for the tint to dry.

Sometimes, in extreme heat, you may be in the clear in 36 to 48 hours. However, on average, newly tinted car windows can take somewhere between three to four days to be 100% dry. 

How Long After Tinting Your Windows Until You Can Roll Them Down?

In winter, the drying process could actually take as long as a few weeks for the car tint to finish completely curing. This is because, in winter months, the wet or cold weather and evaporation process slows down and the heat needed to dry the car window tint takes time.

Pro Tip: Window tint drying time largely depends on the weather.

When Is It Safe to Roll Down Your Windows?

Now, when you are done with the actual tinting process and want to roll your window down, keep in mind that even though it may look dry, the window tint cure time is still at work.

Professional window tinting is recommended to prevent ending up with any hazy and foggy windows. So it’s best to keep the windows rolled up to help the tint cure faster.

Let the tint dry properly and avoid touching the film, washing the film, cleaning the film or anything else that involves contact with the tint.

If you roll down the window before allowing it to dry correctly, you run the risk of ruining the newly applied film.

The film is still being set in place so any friction may peel off the window film or leave bubbles. 

The tinting technician also advises proper maintenance is necessary to increase the lifespan of your window tint.  For this, make sure that you clean the treated glass with soft clothes and foam after it has properly dried. Also, avoid using any razors, blades, a sharp or hard object, or abrasive compounds as it can spoil the tint.

How Does the Window Tint Drying Process Work?

The window tint drying process is technically termed a curing process. This time period is a must to successfully complete a window tinting project.

In many cases, people have to repeat the process and spend money once again because they don’t let the tint dry properly. 

The tint drying process is actually based on evaporating the moisture from all the windows. 

Even after the installation process is done by a professional, it’s possible you may still find tint bubbles. There is nothing to worry about, these bubbles indicate the presence of moisture and should go away with time after the curing process is completed.

How many windows are tinted, the different window shapes and window tinting materials are all variables to consider in the total curing process timeline.

Remember that temperature and humidity are critical factors of curing time and if you want a speedy drying process, try to park your vehicle in a controlled environment.

Pro Tip: If you can find a warm place, in direct sunlight, where the UV rays can reach the car’s interior this helps expedite the average car drying time. Those who park in the shade could also make use of a  window tint heat gun, to create a warm environment for faster drying.

How to Apply Window Tint Film

Applying window tint to your car’s windows is not a very complex job, however, it does require a certain degree of skill, knowledge, and hand control. 

If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, a professional technician can do this for you at your local tint shop. The advantage here is you know they have experience using the latest high-quality tint materials.

Pro Tip: It is essential that you research the window tinting law in your state. This will help you figure out the right window tint percentage for your car. 

Also, it is important that you choose a dust-free and shaded environment when applying window film. Make sure that your windows are as clean as possible.

Use a quality window cleaning spray and dry it out with a squeegee or low lint cloth. You can repeat the process two or three times.

Also, make sure that the cleaning solution you are using does not have any ammonia or vinegar since this can cause damage to window films.

If you haven’t tinted windows before, we suggested that you choose a pre-cut window tint film kit that matches the make and model of your car. These pre-cut films are easy to handle and can be applied much easier than a full window tint roll.

The film should be cut roughly according to the size of your windows. Once you are sure that the tint film fits properly,  apply the application solution to the window. 

After you peel off the protected part of the film, apply some spray on the adhesive side as well. 

Now that the film is placed on the window and fixed in a manner so that bubbles won’t develop, a rubber squeegee can be used for fixation purposes and to ‘push out’ any bubbles that may develop during the curing time.

Conclusion: Average 3+ Days In The Summer & 2 Weeks In The Winter

If installed correctly, cared for properly, and looked after, today’s window tinting products can last 10 years.

The window tinting process has several proven benefits including protection from UV rays and style; however, you need to take into account the state laws while choosing the tinted window percentage.

How long you need to wait before rolling down your window will vary based on the weather, amount of sunlight exposure, and any cold weather conditions.

Remember, the average time to cure is around 3-4 days in summer. But in the winterw, your time to cure can be upwards of 2 weeks due to freezing weather, and this is still completely normal.

What happens if you get pulled for illegal window tint?

If you have applied window tint to your vehicle and you’re scared that you might be pulled over, here is everything you should know about illegal window tinting, ticket prices, and its effects.   

HOW MUCH IS A WINDOW TINT TICKET? 

Exactly how much a violation ticket for illegal window tint ends up costing, depends on the following factors:

The following factors impact the cost of a ticket: 

• What U.S. state you are in when you are pulled over? The cost of window tinting tickets varies from state to state.
• How dark the tint is in comparison to the legal tint limits in that state (for example, X percent darker than that state’s legal limit) 
• If this is a first offense, or whether you have already received previous “fix it” tickets/warnings to remove the window tint  

Most states classify illegal tint offenses as minor traffic violations.

If you remove the tint immediately after being pulled over, you may be able to reduce the amount of the ticket. If you don’t remove the tint right away, you might face further fines.

In general, the following can apply: 

• Expect to pay around $25 for a “fix it” ticket as your first notice. 
• The first traffic citation ticket for unauthorized window tinting generally costs around $100. 
• A second tint ticket can cost upwards of $200.  

If you do not remove the tint, the fine will increase every time you are pulled over with the illegal tint still in place.

The cost of a ticket for violating legal window tint limits varies by state but is typically between $50 to $500. Extrajudicial processing costs, tint-removing verification fees, and late fines can all add up. 

Here are some examples of window tint ticket costs in different states:

• California – $25 for a correctable violation, up to $250 for an infraction.
• Florida – $30 to $150 depending on the severity and if it’s a first offense.
• Texas – Ranges from $175 to $350 for the initial offense.
• New York – $150 to $400 fine plus surcharges, bringing the total to $230-$550.
• Illinois – Up to a $750 fine plus court fees.
• Ohio – Around $150 for a first-time offense.
• Nevada – $330 for the first offense, up to $1000 for subsequent offenses.
• Colorado – Fines range from $50 to $500 based on ticket severity.
• North Carolina – Violations are $50 to $150 plus court costs.
• Georgia – $150 for a first offense, doubling up to $500 for repeat violations.

In most states, the fines increase for second and third offenses within a certain time period.

Those caught driving with excessively dark limo tint typically face the harshest fines. The penalties are meant to deter illegal tinting that can dangerously reduce visibility.

To avoid a ticket, it’s important to get compliant professional tinting and have the installer provide documentation showing legal light transmission levels.

To avoid getting a Tint Ticket, use a tint meter to check the VLT of your window tint.

Tint laws should be checked periodically since states can update regulations.

DOES A WINDOW TINT TICKET AFFECT YOUR INSURANCE? 

Examples of non-moving offenses include expired registration, defective taillights or headlights, heavily tinted windows, or unlawful parking.

• Generally speaking, non-moving offenses will not influence your insurance rates so long as you repair the problem and pay the penalty. 
• As long as you follow your state laws, it is unlikely that your insurance prices will rise, even if you receive a citation for the tint on your windows.

One situation to consider, however, is suppose you are in a car accident out-of-state, and the tint on your vehicle is not legal in that state.

In that case, it’s possible it may affect how your insurance company handles the claim because you were breaking the law in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred.

TRAVELING TO DIFFERENT STATES WITH DARK WINDOW TINT

Because regulations differ in every state, you may be penalized in another state if tinting is illegal there, even if the tint percentage (VLT) is actually legal in the state you live in.

Interested to learn more about crossing state borders with dark window tint? Click here.

As a result, it’s a good idea to double-check the tint laws in the state you are traveling to before embarking on your journey.

HOW TO CHECK THE PERCENT DARKNESS OF WINDOW TINT (HINT: USE A TINT METER)

Whether you bought a new or used car, you should be aware of what your car window tint percentage is and if it is legal or illegal.

This is especially important if you would like to tint your windows even further and ensure that your tint’s darkness adheres to your state tint laws.

You may want to tint your windows for various reasons, including climate management, UV protection, and safety and security.

Here’s how to determine the exact tint darkness of your car windows using a tint meter. 

1. Roll down the window about halfway. To determine the tint percentage on your car, use a tint meter. This is the most accurate approach to assessing tint percentage and is commonly used by tinting professionals and police officers. Personally, we recommend the Enforcer II
2. Slide the tint meter onto the top of the half-rolled-down window. The tint meter features a slot on the back that allows it to be slipped right over the top of the window.
3. Examine the tint meter’s digital display. This will provide you with your window’s precise tint percentage or opacity grade. Once you know your tint darkness, make sure to check that it is legal in your state.

HOW TO GET A WINDOW TINT TICKET DISMISSED (MEDICAL EXEMPTION)? 

If you happen to be pulled over for a window tint-related traffic offense, the best way to avoid being issued a citation is to have a letter that clears you as medical exempt.

The officer must be made aware that you are eligible for a medical exemption.

It is almost always required that you have your medical exemption certificate with you in the vehicle at all times. Once pulled over you must provide the officer paperwork proving that: 

• Determines the need for medical attention (this can be a prescription or detailed letter from a medical professional) 
• Specifies the quantity of sunshine exposure (i.e., the minimum percentage of light transmittance) required to meet the healthcare needs of the person behind the wheel. 
• Contains the expiration date of a prescription or the term of a permit 
• Specifies which vehicle(s) are exempt from window tinting due to “medical reasons.” 

To learn more about qualifying for a medical exemption for window tinting, click here.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:  

HOW MUCH DOES A WINDOW TINT TICKET COST IN CALIFORNIA? 

In California, if you are only issued a fine, it will be $25 according to Vehicle Code 26708, and you will be required to remove the illegal tint film.

If you are also charged with an offense, the fine could be $197. 

HOW MUCH DOES A WINDOW TINT TICKET COST IN TEXAS? 

If this is your first time getting a window tint ticket in the state of Texas, you may be fined between $20 to $25 and forced to remove the tint.

If you do not remove the tint and are later issued a second window tint ticket, the penalties, including court expenses, maybe as much as $275. 

HOW MUCH DOES A WINDOW TINT TICKET COST IN NEW YORK? 

In the state of New York, if your windows do not allow at least 70 percent light transmittance, you may be fined up to $150 for having excessively dark windows.

Police may issue a single ticket for all non-compliant windows or individual tickets for each window that fails to satisfy them.

HOW MUCH DOES A WINDOW TINT TICKET COST IN FLORIDA? 

If you are caught in violation of Florida’s window tint statute, you will be fined approximately $100.

Because this is a non-moving infraction, no points will be issued to your license.