VLT Explained: What Tint Percentages Actually Mean to Customers

Every tint customer asks about percentages, and most have it backwards. A quick, clear explanation builds trust and prevents a comeback complaint.

Lower number = darker

VLT (Visible Light Transmittance) is how much light the film lets through. A 35% film lets 35% of light in; a 5% film lets 5% in and is much darker. Customers often think the opposite — clear that up first.

The window position changes the rules

States set different VLT minimums for windshield, front sides, rear sides, and rear. Front sides are the most regulated; back rows are usually most permissive. The “right” percent depends on which window.

Legal vs what looks good

A customer may want 5% all around, but front sides often have a legal floor (35–50% in many states). Show them what is legal and what it will look like before they commit.

Build it into quoting

Software that treats VLT as a first-class field can filter the catalog to legal options per state automatically — SalesThumb does this.