Shade guide · VLT explained

How dark should I
tint my windows?

In Nevada the answer is almost always 35% VLT on the front sides and 20% on the back. That's the legal max up front, looks great on every color of paint, and you can still see out at night. Here's the long version.

Nevada tint lawsGet a quote →

What each shade looks like

Here's how the most popular window tint shades compare. Whether you're looking for privacy, heat rejection, or the factory look, these are all the VLT percentages we install most often for customers in Fallon, Fernley, and across Northern Nevada.

ShadeNicknameLookBest for
70% VLTBarely thereAlmost invisible; looks like factory clear glassWindshields (top only) and drivers who want heat/UV block with zero darkening
50% VLTLightBarely visible from outside; mostly invisible insideDrivers who want UV + heat protection with stock-look glass
35% VLTMedium (Nevada front-side legal)Noticeable shade, eyes still visible from outsideThe most-picked shade — legal on every window in Nevada
20% VLTDarkPrivacy from arm's length, shapes visible up closeSUVs/trucks — rear glass only in Nevada
5% VLTLimoFull privacy — can't see inside in daylightRear glass only; not legal on front sides

VLT = Visible Light Transmission. Lower number = darker tint. 5% blocks 95% of visible light; 70% blocks 30%.

The "matchback" rule

On SUVs and trucks with factory privacy glass in the back (usually around 18–22% VLT), most drivers add 20% on the rear so the aftermarket film matches the factory look. On the front sides, Nevada caps you at 35% no matter what's behind you.

Night driving reality check

One of the biggest questions we hear is whether darker tint affects night driving. For most drivers, 35% VLT provides an excellent balance between daytime privacy and nighttime visibility, making it our most recommended shade for side windows.

Darkness ≠ heat rejection

A common mistake: picking 5% to "stay cooler." Darkness has almost nothing to do with heat — IR rejection does. A 35% ceramic blocks more heat than a 5% dyed film. Pick the shade you want for looks and privacy, and pick the tier for heat.

Not sure what shade fits your car?

Not sure which window tint shade looks best on your vehicle? We would love to show you sample films against your own windows in direct sunlight so you can compare 70%, 50%, 35%, 20%, and 5% before deciding. It only takes a few minutes.

Get a quote →