Window tint percentages often confuse people. You’ll see terms like 5%, 20%, 35%, or 70%—but what about 0% tint? It’s one of the darkest options available and is rarely seen on daily-driven vehicles.
A 0% tint means the window lets in almost no visible light. In other words, it’s completely opaque and offers maximum privacy. It’s commonly referred to as “limo tint,” although even limo tints are often around 5% VLT. With 0% tint, you can’t see into the vehicle—and it’s just as hard to see out.
In this article, I’ll break down what 0% tint actually means, how it compares to other levels, its legal status, how it performs in heat and UV blocking, how it affects driving visibility, and whether it’s the right choice for your needs.
What Does 0% Window Tint Actually Mean?
The term “0% tint” refers to its Visible Light Transmission (VLT) value. That means the window blocks 100% of visible light—or very close to it. While no tint film blocks exactly 100% of light, 0% is a marketing label for films that are virtually pitch black.
With 0% VLT, people outside the car cannot see inside at all. Likewise, people inside the car have extremely limited vision, especially at night or in low-light settings.
This level of darkness is rarely street-legal for any window and is typically used in specialty vehicles, private limousines, armored cars, or show vehicles.
How Does 0% Tint Compare to Other Tint Levels?
Here’s how 0% tint stacks up against other common options:
- 5% tint – Limo tint; extremely dark, barely transparent
- 10% tint – Dark but allows slightly more light than limo tint
- 20% tint – Strong privacy, decent visibility during daytime
- 35% tint – Balanced privacy and light; legal in many states
- 45% tint – Light-to-medium shade with good visibility
- 70% tint – Very light; often used for UV protection only
0% tint sits beyond all of these—it offers full blackout conditions with minimal-to-no visibility.
Is 0% Tint Light or Dark?
It’s the darkest you can get. Even from the inside, you’ll struggle to see out during both day and night. This makes it unsuitable for drivers who rely on mirrors and peripheral vision. In short, 0% is as dark and private as it gets—but at a big cost to visibility.
How Safe Is 0% Tint for Night Driving?
It’s not safe for most drivers. Visibility is drastically reduced, especially at night. You won’t clearly see traffic, pedestrians, or road signs through 0% tint, and your side mirrors become nearly useless.
Safety Studies
In 2022, the National Road Safety Foundation found that tints under 10% VLT led to a 45% increase in nighttime blind spots for average drivers.
Most professionals recommend avoiding 0% tint for any driving use, especially in poorly lit areas.
How Well Does 0% Tint Handle Heat and UV?
While it doesn’t let in visible light, 0% tint doesn’t always perform better in terms of heat and UV rejection—unless paired with advanced materials.
Heat Control
- Dyed 0% film: 40% heat blocked
- Ceramic 0% film: Up to 75% infrared heat rejection
UV Protection
Like other high-quality tints, 0% films block 99% of UV rays, reducing skin damage and preventing upholstery fading.
However, blocking visible light doesn’t always mean better heat or UV performance. The material matters more.
Is 0% Tint Legal in the U.S.?
No. In most U.S. states, 0% tint is illegal on front and side windows. It may be permitted on rear windows in certain cases or in show cars not used on public roads.
Examples of State Laws:
- California – Front side windows must allow 70% light
- New York – 70% VLT minimum for front side windows
- Florida – Minimum 28% VLT for front side windows; 15% rear
Even in more lenient states, 0% tint is usually too dark to pass inspections or avoid traffic stops.
What Does 0% Tint Look Like on Real Cars?
0% tint appears completely black from any angle. Here are real-life examples:
- Black Cadillac Escalade – 0% tint on rear windows for full blackout luxury look
- Custom Chevy Tahoe – 0% rear tint with legal 35% on front; strong contrast in visibility
- Show Car Mustang – All-around 0% tint; undrivable at night without interior lighting
Expect full privacy and a sleek, intimidating appearance—but at the cost of visibility and legality.
How Much Does 0% Tint Cost in 2025?
Pricing depends on the material:
- Dyed Film: $100–$180 — budget-friendly but fades quickly
- Carbon Film: $200–$250 — better durability and solar control
- Ceramic Film: $250–$550 — top-tier heat and UV rejection with better interior clarity
Ceramic is ideal if you’re trying to reduce interior heat while maintaining a blackout look.
What Drivers Say After Using 0% Tint
In a 2025 survey by CarKitAdvisor:
- 93% loved the full privacy and look
- 71% said they struggled with night driving
- 59% were stopped by police within 12 months
- 34% eventually switched to a lighter tint
Pros and Cons of 0% Tint
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultimate privacy | Not legal in most states |
| Maximum shade and glare block | Dangerous for night driving |
| Great for off-road/show cars | Side mirror visibility is limited |
| High-end appearance | Can cause safety and legal issues |
Is 0% Tint the Right Choice for You?
Choose 0% tint if you want:
- Full privacy and blackout effect
- A custom or off-road vehicle only
- Show car aesthetics and maximum shade
- Rear-window-only tinting (where legal)
Avoid 0% tint if you want:
- Daily driving at night
- Compliance with tint laws
- Clear side mirror visibility
Pro Tip: If you love the blackout look but want some visibility, consider 5% ceramic tint. It offers nearly the same privacy with better night-time clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions About 0% Tint
Is 0% tint actually 0% VLT? Not always. It’s a rounded number. In reality, it’s typically closer to 1%–3% but appears fully black.
Can I legally use 0% tint anywhere? Rarely. Some rear windows in SUVs or limos may be exempt, but most front-side and driver windows must allow more light.
Does 0% tint help with heat? Only if the film is ceramic or nano. Darkness doesn’t always equal better heat rejection.
Is 0% tint safe? Not for daily driving—especially at night. Visibility suffers.
Can you remove 0% tint later? Yes. Like other films, it can be professionally removed or replaced.
Final Thoughts on 0% Window Tint
0% window tint offers the ultimate privacy and blackout effect—but it comes with serious trade-offs. It’s not legal for everyday use in most states, and it can be dangerous when driving at night.
If you want the stealth look without the risks, try 5% or 10% ceramic film. You’ll still get that bold, dark finish—just with better safety and legal standing.
For more info, check out our detailed guides on other tint levels like 5%, 20%, 35%, and 50% to find what suits your car best.
Need help deciding? Use the free Vehicle Tint Match Tool at CarKitAdvisor.com to get a perfect recommendation based on your car and local laws.