Tint FAQs

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Below are some of the most frequently asked questions on window tinting.

Tinted windows on a car make for a nice sleek look but did you also know that window tint film has a few useful safety features? Aside from making it more difficult for potential robbers to see what’s in your passenger seat, car window tints offer enhanced UV protection. This helps to protect the interior of your car over time, keeping it looking pristine. Additionally, tint provides extra protection from heat throughout the summer preventing you from overheating on hot days. And in the case of an accident, window film helps keep glass intact, protecting you from flying glass fragments.

But many people are often confused about vehicle window tinting rules and regulations, as well as other common questions: Are tinted windows legal? How long does it take to install tint? How do you maintain and clean tint? So, we went ahead and pulled together the most frequently asked questions to provide you with quick answers regarding window tinting.

How much does window tint installation cost?

The cost of window tinting varies but to give you an idea, for a standard sedan, you should look to spend between $200-$400 for a good tint job with high-quality tint film. Now, you can and may come across a cheaper price, closer to $100. Be careful with these special promotions as they tend to do cheap jobs or use a lower-quality tint film. Make sure to do your due diligence when shopping for window tint and ask questions.

Keep in mind that there are a few variables that will impact the price of tinting. To learn more about the cost of window tinting and the variables that can impact this price, make sure to read more on How Much Does it Cost to Tint Car Windows.

Does factory tint block UV rays? 

Factory tinted windows, unlike window film installation, do not provide UV protection but they do offer some privacy and can reduce eye strain. However, aftermarket window tint offers UV security, eases eye strain, and can keep glass together in the case of an accident by preventing all the small pieces of glass from flying and causing damage. Aftermarket window films are important to consider for beneficial health reasons, especially if UV rays are a concern as frequent UV exposure can promote skin cancer.

Which states have the strictest window tinting laws? 

Some states have very stringent tint rules. Stricter laws enforce close to a 70% VLT on either the front or back side windows, or both. California, Alaska, Iowa, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Washington DC lie on the stricter side of the spectrum. Some of the more lenient states include New Mexico, Texas, Washington, Florida, Montana. Want to know your state’s current tinting laws? Find your states here.

Is it legal to tint car windows? 

This is the most asked question about vehicle window tinting. Tinted windows are completely legal as long as the tint film used does not exceed the legal tint limit. There are many tint films that range from clear to the darkest legal tint percentage. We recommend checking your state’s current tint laws or speaking with a professional who will walk you through different tint shade choices that best fit your character and lifestyle, while more importantly, complying with your state’s legal tint laws.

How long does it take to tint car windows? 

The time it takes to tint your car is determined by the size of your vehicle. That said, as a general rule, a standard sedan takes about two hours, while an SUV can take up to an additional hour. 

What is the best way to clean tinted windows?

We recommend using cleaners that are ammonia-free as ammonia can result in quicker film deterioration. Many tint professionals simply use water and soap solution for an effective clean, with with a microfiber cloth. If you’re looking for a stronger clean, we recommend these highly-rated window tint cleaners that can be found right on Amazon:

3D Glass Cleaner – Ready to Use, Tint Safe, Streak Free Glass Cleaner – 16oz.

Invisible Glass 92164-2PK 22-Ounce Premium Glass Cleaner and Window Spray

And our favorite microfiber towels:

Chemical Guys MIC_506_03 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels

What is the darkest legally permissible tint? 

Each state or county has the authority to enact laws governing the permissible tint cap. Failure to comply with your state’s tint laws can result in fines. The general permissible limits for the driver’s and passenger’s front windows are 50% and 35%, respectively, for the rear passenger or side windows and the back window. To find out your state’s current tint laws, make sure to look up your state, here.

Can I apply my own window tint?

Yes, you can absolutely DIY window tinting at home, though we don’t recommend it. If you haven’t installed window tint before, it’s a tedious job. One that you might start and soon wish you had just taken it to a professional. Window tinting includes several steps, multiple window cleanings, cutting tint film with a blade for sizing, applying the adhesive film to the inside of the glass, and a heat gun to stretch the film for a sleek, perfected look. If you’re determined to tackle this job on your own, or if you’d simply like to learn how the job is done, check out our comprehensive guide to DIY window tint.

What are the laws regarding car window tinting? 

Each jurisdiction has its own tint rules and inspection standards. Except for the front windshield, there are no police authority inspection requirements for aftermarket window tinting – there hasn’t been one in many years. Window tint on the front windshield will cause you to fail PA inspection. On the other hand, it is up to the police officer’s judgment. They have the authority to fine for tint if they believe it is too dark. Some cops are more permissive toward lighter films (30%+) whereas others may be opposed. 

What is window tint film made of?

There are two categories of window tint: Factory and Aftermarket. Factory window tint is applied during car manufacturing. The window glass is darkened by pigment and dyes to limit the amount of light that can pass through the glass. Aftermarket tint is mostly made up of multi-layers of polyester material including metal particles, pigments and dyes, and a scratch-resistant final layer. There is a variety of different types of aftermarket tint, including Ceramic, Carbon, Metallic, and Hybrid to name a few. The difference between these tint film options is what particles the film consists of. For example: Carbon Window Film includes a patented nano-carbon technology consisting of hundreds of microscopic layers of polymer. This tint is a great choice for heat and glare reduction. To learn more about the different types of window tint film, check out Ceramic Window Tint: How It Compares to the Other 5 Types.

Is 5% Limo Tint Illegal?

For the most part, yes. 5 percent VLT is illegal for most cars. However, there are special circumstances that make vehicles eligible to apply ‘limo tint’ also known as 5% tint. Some customers purchase these extremely low visibility tints for cars that are never driven on public roads. They may be used in car shows, or only operated on private property.

How to bypass window tint laws (not eligible for all states)

One way to bypass your state’s tint laws is to be eligible for a medical exemption. It’s important to note that a medical exemption is permissible in most states, but not all. There are 9 states that do not allow medical exemptions for window tint. This medical exemption allows you to have darker window film due to medical reasons that vary by state. For example, the state of California requires a written letter from your physician stating the medical necessity. It’s also required to carry your medical exemption card whenever in a vehicle with dark tint. To learn more about medical exemption availability by state, head over to How To Get Medical Exemption For Window Tint.

What questions should I ask a window tinting professional?

So you’re looking to get your windows tinted but know nothing about window tint. Fear no more. Below are the most common questions tinting pros get asked.

• Do you offer a lifetime warranty? (This is a big one and can set a shop apart from another, even if it’s just a little more in pricing.)
• Do you have insurance? What happens if damage occurs to the vehicle while in your care?
• What types of window films do you recommend for me and why?
• How long will it take to install window tint? What steps I should take before and after installation?
• Can you provide me with detailed pricing? Make sure to always get an itemized quote so that you can negotiate any additions made to the bill before the job is done.

How long do I need to wait to roll down my windows after window tinting?

It’s recommended to keep your car windows closed for about three to four days after window tinting. It’s important to follow this step as the window film needs this time to cure so that it can properly adhere to the glass. Some window tint shops will place tape over your window buttons to keep you from rolling them down while driving. If you accidentally roll down your window while the film is not fully dried, don’t worry just yet, you might be in the clear. Assess the window for any damage and if you do notice a new imperfection to the tint, take your vehicle back to the shop that completed the film installation. Also keep in mind that window film is installed on the inside of the window glass, so try not to touch the tint during this time.

How long does good window film last?

A properly installed and cured standard window film will last around 5 years. High-quality tint films can last closer to 10 years while very poor quality films can last just a few months to 1-2 years. With lower-quality tints, it won’t take long before you will notice fading and/or bubbling which can really impact the aesthetic of your car as well as minimize the benefits of why you installed window tint in the first place.

Some automotive tint shops offer warranties that cover any damage or natural deterioration such as peeling and fading. If you’re investing in a high-quality tint, make sure to ask about a warranty.

How can I check the VLT percentage of my window tint?

The easiest and most accurate way to measure the percentage of window tint on your vehicle is by using a Tint Meter. The tint meter will test the visible light that passes through and show you a reading of the tint darkness. There are many tint meters on the market so make sure to read up on product reviews before making a purchase.

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We hope these frequently asked questions were able to provide you with a quick answer on window tinting. Have a question that’s not listed above? Send us an email!

Is it okay to Drive with a Cracked Windshield and How to get a Cracked Windshield Repair?

When it comes to cracked windshields, there are numerous questions people may have.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common rules about windshield cracks, windshield repairs, regulations by state, and how to repair a windshield crack on a car or motor vehicle.

Reading this article could save you from a traffic ticket, save you on replacement cost, or car insurance, and ensure that you are driving with a car up to legal code.

Can I be driving with a cracked windshield or damaged windshield?

What about my window tint?

How do I deal with car insurance companies?

What are the best ways to get a windshield repair?

Types of Car Windshield Cracks

Almost every single motor vehicle has a windshield feature, complete with windshield wipers and safety glass. The purpose of windshields is to protect the driver’s view while they are operating the car.

Windshield cracks are sometimes covered by car insurance, depending on the type of crack, and if the entire pane needs a replacement.

There are a few different ways that the front window of the car can crack:

• Collision
• Chips
• Shatter

Collisions

If the windshield is completely cracked because of a collision, most likely the vehicle insurance will cover the replacement glass. Especially, since there are some serious car side effects to consider after a crash!

Post-car accident, motorists will need to contact the insurance auto inspection company, and schedule services to fix the broken window. Most comprehensive insurance policies include coverage for drivers to replace the windshields on a car if they are completely cracked. The driver usually just has to pay their normal insurance costs, and sometimes the deductible established for their unique motor vehicles. The most important thing is your safety as a driver, so insurance companies must follow state laws for repair regulation.

Chips

If your front window chips due to an unexpected issue, unrelated to an accident, perhaps caused by a falling object or other miscellaneous objects, you’ll need to determine if it distorts your vision. Car insurance companies may still replace the glass at no cost. Especially, if the chips interfere with driver safety and if it impacts a driver’s vision.

Shatter

A damaged windshield that is shattered poses the greatest issue for motorists. A small hairpin crack does not necessarily distort a driver’s vision, but vehicles with completely broken glass, according to state regulations, must be repaired immediately. While the details of the rules related to the type of glass shatter will vary by location and state, more often than not, if the shatter is more than a few inches, the regulations call for total replacement so that the car is up to code.

Insurance and Windshield Repairs

Since it is dangerous to drive with impaired visibility, in most states it is illegal to drive a vehicle with a broken windshield. The best approach is to find out from the car insurance companies before starting with their services what they will include in your policy. Then, you’ll know what could be covered under your service contract.

Is it Illegal to Drive with a Cracked Windshield?

It depends.

The regulations and laws differ in different states. Below is an in-depth review of the legal status of driving vehicles with cracked windshields in each state, including New York, Texas, Florida, and California. You may want to consult the California State Transportation Agency website to determine the legal status of driving with cracked windshields in the state of California.

Each state has developed a unique code to ensure driver safety. Some states may simply assess a traffic ticket, while in other states they may require a comprehensive and complete fix or repair of windshields with cracks.

It’s up to each driver to consider if they’d rather pay the cost of a ticket if they are caught driving a vehicle with a crack, rather than just complete the repairs in advance according to the local law.

Cracked Windshield Laws by State

Each state is tasked with determining the law for vehicle safety for its residents. Some states require drivers to service the windshield cracks within hours of the damage, while others will allow car owners to use the vehicle if the cracks don’t impair vision and are smaller than a few inches.

To determine if your auto windshield needs to be replaced immediately, read through a review of a few laws based on the different states below. Contact your state’s transportation department directly to determine if your windshield legally needs to be replaced.

Cracked Windshield Laws in New York, Texas, Florida, and California

A few of the most common laws regarding driving with a windshield crack can be illustrated with the laws of states like New York, Texas, Florida, and California.

Windshield Laws by State

New York

If the crack in your auto windshield in New York is longer than 11 inches, it won’t pass inspection, and it is against the law to operate.

It’s not advisable to drive with a crack or chip in your front car window in New York. It’s recommended to get your auto windows repaired within hours of the damage to assure that you avoid legal trouble.

Sometimes the repairs take time, or replacement windows require a special order.

The main concerns of the windshield law in New York are visibility and motorist wellbeing. It’s the same way the tint laws are formulated, which strive to ensure clear visibility.

The bottom line: if the cracks distort the driver’s ability to see, have the piece repaired.

Texas

In Texas, vehicles are not required to have a windshield by law. If your vehicle does have a windshield, cracks simply must not impede the line of sight of the driver.

In Texas, there is not a free windshield replacement policy, but a comprehensive insurance plan will ensure that you don’t have to pay out of pocket if it comes time to replace the front window.

Florida

Florida is an ideal place for a windshield to crack because Florida law requires that a windshield that is cracked or chipped must be replaced free of charge. The law further states that the deductible will be waived in order to replace the front pane in Florida.

California

Any windshield or rearview window that distorts the driver’s view is illegal in the state of California. Just like in Texas, windshield repairs or replacements in California are not necessarily free but are often covered by a comprehensive insurance policy.

Check with your auto insurance agency to determine if a windshield repair is covered under your policy.

Also, similar to Texas law, it’s not necessarily illegal to operate a vehicle without a windshield in California. However, if it doesn’t have a front window, you are required to wear eye protection.

How to repair a cracked windshield

Making repairs on a cracked windshield can be simple or complicated depending on your skill level with window replacement. Much like DIY car window tinting, you’ll want to follow the right steps for the best outcome.

At-Home Windshield Repair Kits

If you have relatively small-sized damage, cracks, or a chipped section, a DIY windshield repair kit can help you protect the damaged section, and prevent the damage from spreading further. It will keep your repair costs low, but it won’t completely remove the issue.

Check with the National Windshield Repair Division to see which DIY kit is the best quality for your damage type.

Windshield Replacement

You may opt to totally replace your windshield if the window glass is tempered, and not laminated, as this will ensure you are safe in the event of further damage through a car accident, or if the crack spreads. Make sure to visit a certified USA auto glass technician to handle the windshield replacement.

What is the Best Way to Repair your Auto Glass Damaged

If the damage to your windshield is small (less than a few inches in diameter or length) you can opt for an at-home repair kit. This will protect and preserve the damage as it is, and prevent it from worsening.

If the damage to your windshield is larger than 6-8 inches, it’s time for a complete replacement.

Communicate with your insurance company, and check local/state laws regarding windshield replacement to see if your policy or state guidelines offer glass coverage.

Drive Safe, Not Sorry

If you’ve got a crack in your automobile’s front window glass it may be tempting to leave it as is and keep operating your car. However, glass damage can quickly become an issue for your own clear vision on the road, and your overall wellbeing, and for the wellbeing of other motorists.

The best thing to do is communicate with your insurance company, and opt for glass coverage for your vehicle, as well as educate yourself on the rules in your state.

Opt to be a safe driver!

If you need tools to work on your car window or want to review local rules in your location, visit our website for more information.

So you’re looking to tint your car windows but aren’t sure how much you’ll need to spend. Here is everything you should consider before tinting your car.

There are several variables that can alter the price of car tinting such as, who will conduct the tint job (a professional or you’re an avid DIY-er), the type of vehicle (a coupe vs. a minivan), how large the windows are, the type of window tint film that you’re looking to install, and what percentage tint you choose, which should be based on your state’s window tint laws. It’s important to note that the cost of window tint weighs heavily on the material and technology than the installation itself.

When shopping for window tint, you’ll want to keep in mind “you get what you pay for” because a cheap window tint job is exactly that, a cheap job. Below we’ve broken down for you the different variables that impact window tint costs, and what you should look to spend for good window tinting.

Types of Vehicles

Coupe

You might think that window tinting a coupe would be the cheapest tint job, and it can be. However, some coupes have steep rear or curved windows resulting in a more custom tint job than the average vehicle, which can result in an increase in labor costs.

Sedan

There are not many surprises to look out for when looking to tint a sedan. Most sedan vehicles are close in size with the same number of windows.

SUVs

SUVs typically have larger windows than coupes and sedans, both larger and taller. For this reason, pricing will be a little higher than a standard vehicle.

Trucks

Because there is an array of truck sizes, tint cost will depend on the size of the truck you are looking to tint.

Types of Car Window Tint

Now that we covered the different vehicle types and what about them can affect price, next we’ll review the most important factor: types of window tint film. Below are just a handful of popular tint films with information you’ll want to consider before you begin a tint job. To see a full list of popular films and how they compare to one another, click here.

Ceramic Window Tint

A high-performance window tint, thus the most expensive. Ceramic window tint offers an array of benefits including the best possible levels of protection, while also keeping your car’s interior colder. This tint doesn’t include any dyes, metal, or carbon, making it the most transparent film available.

Dyed Window Tint

Opposite of Ceramic tint film, dyed window tint is the least expensive option available. This is because it has less technology, resulting in less-favored functionality. Dyed window tint is exactly how it’s described, dyed, meaning that as time progresses and the sun hits your windows, the more the dye fades, impacting the color of the tint. Dyed window tint is often used for those cheaply promoted window tint jobs that you might think is a “great deal”, but may regret your decision throughout its natural wear and tear. If you’re looking to go a more affordable route, and are simply tinting your car for cosmetic purposes, dyed window tint might be a good option for you.

Metallized Window Tint

A benefit of Metallized window tint is that it carries metal particles that not only strengthens the windows but gives off a mirror-like glare from the exterior. The issue with this technology is that the metal can interfere with electronics being used in the car, ie. GPS, phones, radar detectors, and the radio.

Metal/Dyed Hybrid Window Tint

Hybrid window tint is a high-performing option, somewhat similar to ceramic. The technology of hybrid tint is exactly how described, a film that incorporates both dyed and metal components. This film makes an excellent option for those looking for protection again UV rays and glare, as well as restricting heat from passing through the film.

Carbon Window Tint

Carbon window film is a great option for heat and glare reduction, making it a good option for those living in warm temperatures. Carbon film uses a patented nano-carbon technology that provides a dark black tint and a resistance to fading. Because of its technology, carbon film has a matte finish as opposed to a glare finish similar to other films. Carbon window tint is more expensive than standard films but more affordable than Ceramic tint film.

Professional Tinting vs. D-I-Y Tinting

As mentioned before, the cost of tinting car windows relies more on the technology of the tint film and the amount of tint needed for the windows, and less on the labor itself. If you think you’ll be saving costs by doing the installation yourself, you might save less than you’d expect since you’ll need to still cover the materials.

Professional window tint shops can make it an easy, guided process. Tint shops can help pair you with the right tint film for your vehicle, they will make sure the tint percentage is within state limitations, and they’ll execute a nice tint job with hopefully a guarantee.

If you’re still looking to do it yourself, (click here for D-I-Y step by step instructions) before purchasing a window tint kit, the most important thing you should do is review your state’s window tint laws. This will ensure that you purchase tint within your state’s restrictions, as violating these laws can result in fines. You’ll also want to make sure that you have the tools to get the job done right. We recommend these tint kits that are affordable, yet highly recommended by our Window Tint Laws community:

Ehdis Vinyl Wrap Tool 7 Pieces Vehicle Window Tint Tool Kit Car Glass Protective Film Wrapping Installation Set Included Vinyl Squeegees, Mini Scraper, Film Cutting Knife with Blades Luxiv Car Window Tint Application Tools Kit, 9 Pcs Vehicle Glass Protective Film Installing Tool Car Window Film Squeegee Automotive Film Scrapers Window Tint Tools

Using the right products will help you achieve a professional-looking paint job with no bubbling. We recommend taking a look at our recent post on how to avoid bubbling before starting your tint job.

Want to D-I-Y?

How to tint car windows. To Do-It-Yourself, check out how to tint car windows here.

Warranty

Lastly, something you may not have considered until now is a car tint warranty. If you anticipate getting your car windows tinted by a professional, you may be offered the choice to opt for a warranty. This is something to think through, especially if you’d like the security of knowing that whenever there is an issue with your tint, whether it’s a small tint bubble or fading, you can always bring it right back to the shop for repair. If you’re looking to install window tint yourself, a warranty is no longer an option and you’ll be having to repair any issues that can come along, even from simple wear and tear.

Summary: The Average Cost for Car Window Tinting

If you’re looking to professionally tint a standard vehicle, such as a sedan with 4 windows, using standard film such as dyed window tint, you should anticipate spending around $100 for the entire vehicle. However, if you’re looking to reap the benefits of a higher quality tint, especially living in warm climates, you should look to spend between $200 to $400 for the entire vehicle, depending on the size of the vehicle and its windows, the number of windows, etc.) Remember that laws vary by state, so these prices may fluctuate depending on the tint film percentage you can get.

Our two cents…”You get what you pay for” is a good statement to consider when window tint shopping. If you’re looking to budget on window tint, there are surely lower-cost tint options, however, they often look cheap too. If you’ll looking to not only have a beautiful looking tint on your vehicle, but to also reduce glare, UV rays, and restrict heat from entering your car, you’ll want to increase your budget for a higher-performing tint film.

5 Reasons To Know The Window Tint Laws In Your State 

You just got your hands on your dream car, and you want to do everything you can to deck it out.  You want the best features, and having dark windows will grant you the ultimate level of privacy in your vehicle.  

Before you go darkening your glass, it’s wise to check in to the legal stipulations regarding tint in your state.  Take a moment to read through a few reasons why it’s crucial to know the window tint laws in your state, and go forth in knowledge.  

You could get pulled over by the police

First and foremost, having too dark a tint on your vehicle windows could lead to a run-in with police.  Most people don’t enjoy the anxiety and irritation caused by a traffic stop, and a simple traffic stop could lead to bigger problems.  

Don’t give the police a reason to be interested in what you’re doing, and get it right from the start.  Knowing the legal tint boundaries could save you from a nasty traffic ticket and fines.  You don’t want your window tint to cause you to need legal services before it’s all said and done.  

Tint laws are set for a reason

People tint their vehicle windows for a long list of reasons.  Some do it to reduce the heat inside the vehicle in the midst of summer.  Some people tint their windows for privacy, and sometimes tint can add safety to your vehicle. 

However, tint laws are set for a reason.  Too dark a tint or a bad tint job can obstruct your ability to see what’s going on around you while you’re driving.  Play it safe, and understand tint laws before you take your vehicle to be fitted.  

You don’t want to have to redo the job

If you don’t pay any attention to the tint laws in your state, you may darken your windows too much.  After a few times of the police bothering you on your way to work, you’ll want the inconveniences to cease.  

You’ll have to have the tint redone on your vehicle to set things right, and that will only cost you more money.  Doing it right in the first place will save you money and hassle.  

The installer may not be in the know

In a perfect world, someone working in a certain profession would be completely competent in that profession.  However, this is not always the case.  If the person tinting your windows isn’t in the know about the legal tint restrictions in your state, you could end up going too dark.  

Ride in style and in peace 

It’s better to prepare yourself with knowledge before ever scheduling the appointment to have your windows tinted.  By simply looking up the information yourself, you can save money, time, and a lot of hassle in the future.