Picking a VLT% (Visible Light Transmission) is the most common thing new customers get stuck on. Here's the short version: lower VLT% means darker glass, and the right choice depends on your vehicle type, how you use it, and Texas law — not just how dark you think it looks online.
The Texas legal baseline
Before picking a shade, know the floor:
- Front side windows (all vehicles): minimum 25% VLT — you cannot legally go darker here without a medical exemption
- Back side windows & rear window: any darkness is legal with dual outside mirrors installed
- Windshield: non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches
(Source: Recording Law)
Because ceramic film's heat rejection isn't tied to how dark it is, you can stay at a legal 25–35% VLT on your front windows and still get serious heat and UV protection — you don't have to choose between "legal" and "cool."
VLT% by vehicle type and use case
| VLT% | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 50% | Daily-driver sedans, company/fleet vehicles | Subtle look, maximum front-window visibility, safe margin above the 25% legal floor |
| 35% | Sedans & crossovers wanting a noticeably darker look up front | Popular all-around choice; still comfortably legal on front windows |
| 20% | Rear windows on trucks, SUVs & family vehicles | Not legal on front windows; great for rear-seat privacy and glare control |
| 15% | Trucks, off-road & overland builds wanting an aggressive rear-end look | Rear/back windows only, dual mirrors required |
| 5% | "Limo tint" on trucks & SUVs with full rear privacy needs | Legal only on rear glass with dual mirrors; darkest common option |
Recommendations by vehicle type
- Sedans & daily commuters: 35–50% front, 20% rear — balances visibility with heat rejection for daily driving
- Trucks & work vehicles: 35% front (legal minimum plus margin), 15–20% rear for a purposeful look and tool/cargo privacy
- SUVs & family vehicles: 35% front, 20% rear for kid/cargo privacy without going full limo-dark
- Off-road & overland builds: 35% front, 5–15% rear — the darker rear treatment matches the aggressive build without touching your legally protected front visibility
Shop by VLT% and vehicle
Every precut kit on our site is offered across these common VLT levels so you're never stuck choosing between the shade you want and legal compliance on your front windows. Browse by vehicle type: Sedans, Trucks, SUVs & Crossovers, Off-Road & Overland, Full-Size SUVs, Electric Vehicles, and Minivans.
Not sure which shade fits your vehicle and lifestyle? Check our About Us page for a full breakdown of available VLT levels and coverage options, or reach out before you order.