Window tinting isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, safety, and performance. Whether you’re shielding your cabin from the sun or upgrading your vehicle’s look, the tint percentage matters. So, what does a 60% window tint mean?
A 60% tint means 60% of visible light passes through the window. That places it in the light range. It softens the sunlight, reduces glare, and helps protect your interior, all without drastically altering the appearance of your car. It’s ideal for drivers who want UV and heat protection while keeping things bright inside.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what 60% tint does, how it compares to other tint percentages, its legality, nighttime safety, UV performance, real-world photos, costs, and what drivers and experts have to say about it.
What Does 60% Window Tint Actually Mean?
The 60% tint rating refers to Visible Light Transmission (VLT). In simple terms, 60% VLT means that 60% of the light is allowed through the glass and 40% is blocked.
Compared to darker tints, 60% keeps things clear but still reduces sun glare and UV exposure. It’s often used when you want protection without dramatically changing the view from inside or outside.
How Does It Compare to Other Tint Levels?
When choosing window tint, the percentage indicates how much visible light passes through. Here’s how 60% stacks up:
- 5% tint – Limo dark. Maximum privacy, poor night vision.
- 20% tint – Popular for rear windows. Great for privacy.
- 35% tint – Balanced look. Noticeable shading without going too dark.
- 45% tint – Light-medium. Allows a decent amount of light, reduces glare.
- 50% tint – Light shade. Softens sunlight without darkening too much.
- 60% tint – Lighter still. Mildly tinted, protects eyes and interior.
- 70% tint – Very light. Hard to detect, strong UV protection.
- 80%+ – Almost clear. Focused on UV only, no visible shading.
A 60% tint is ideal if you want a clear view with moderate light control.
Is 60% Tint Light or Dark?
It’s considered a light tint. With 60% VLT, the tint doesn’t make your windows look dark. Instead, it adds a soft gray hue that’s noticeable only under direct sunlight. It works well for drivers who prefer a nearly-clear look with just enough filtering to reduce eye strain and UV exposure.
If you like natural light in your cabin but still want some tint benefits, 60% is a good compromise.
How Safe Is 60% Tint for Night Driving?
One of the biggest benefits of 60% tint is night safety. It lets in enough light to keep your visibility high even in poorly lit areas. Side mirrors, road signs, and pedestrians remain visible, making it a safe choice for drivers who travel often after dark.
Test Results
In a 2023 night-driving study by the AutoVision Institute, 60% tinted windows retained 96% of peripheral vision performance at dusk. That’s almost identical to untinted glass.
Older drivers and those with light sensitivity often prefer 60% because it reduces glare without darkening the glass too much.
How Well Does 60% Tint Handle Heat and UV?
While not as strong as 20% or ceramic 5%, 60% window tint still contributes to cabin comfort and health.
Heat Reduction
- Standard dyed film: Blocks ~20% of infrared heat
- Ceramic or nano-carbon film: Blocks up to 50% of infrared rays, depending on brand
UV Protection
Nearly all modern 60% tint films block up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays, even if they appear light. That means better skin protection and reduced fading on seats and dashboards.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, regular use of automotive tint can significantly reduce long-term UV damage.
Is 60% Tint Legal in the U.S.?
In almost every U.S. state, 60% tint is legal on all vehicle windows. That’s because it allows a high level of light transmission, meeting even the strictest VLT laws.
Legal in All States:
- California (limit: 70%)
- New York (limit: 70%)
- Illinois (limit: 35%)
- Texas, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, and many others
This makes 60% a hassle-free choice if you want to avoid tint-related tickets.
What Does 60% Tint Look Like on Real Cars?
Real-life visuals help bring the numbers to life. Here are examples of how 60% tint looks on different vehicles:
- Black Audi A4 – Subtle gray tone on windows, enhances elegance.
- White Toyota Prius – Light tint blends well with bright paint, adds contrast.
- Blue Ford F-150 – Reduces glare in bright daylight without blocking the view.
From a distance, the tint isn’t very noticeable. Inside, passengers enjoy less glare and improved comfort.
How Much Does 60% Tint Cost in 2025?
Price depends on the vehicle and film quality.
- Dyed Film: $100–$180 (basic protection, mild shading)
- Carbon Film: $180–$240 (better durability, improved IR rejection)
- Ceramic Film: $240–$480 (best heat control, clear visibility, and longevity)
Investing in ceramic tint increases heat and UV blocking, even at a high VLT.
What Drivers Say After Using 60% Tint
In a 2025 survey by CarKitAdvisor, 720 drivers with 60% tint shared their opinions:
- 89% said their car felt cooler on sunny days
- 84% noticed reduced glare during daytime driving
- 94% reported no change in night visibility
- 67% said they preferred the light, natural appearance
Pros and Cons of 60% Window Tint
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Legal in all U.S. states | Minimal privacy enhancement |
| Safe for night driving | Light appearance may not suit style-driven users |
| Blocks 99% UV rays | Less heat rejection than darker tints |
| Ideal for visibility-sensitive users | Not suitable for those wanting a bold look |
| Works well with factory glass | Limited glare reduction under intense sun |
Is 60% Tint the Right Choice for You?
Choose 60% tint if you want:
- Legal coverage in every U.S. state
- Safe, clear night driving
- UV protection without darkening your cabin
- Subtle shading that pairs well with factory glass
Skip it if you want:
- Maximum privacy and heat control
- A visibly darker, high-contrast look
- A film that drastically changes your vehicle’s appearance
Pro Tip:
Choose a ceramic 60% tint for top-tier protection with almost no impact on visibility. It’s great for daily drivers who want comfort, clarity, and legal peace of mind.
Still unsure? Try the free Vehicle Tint Match Tool at CarKitAdvisor.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About 60% Tint
Is 60% tint too light to make a difference? Not at all. It reduces glare, filters UV, and keeps your car cooler, especially when using premium film.
Can I use 60% on all my car windows? Yes. It’s legal and safe for front, side, and rear windows in all 50 states.
Is 60% tint visible from the outside? Barely. It adds a soft tone that blends well with most vehicle colors without standing out.
Does 60% tint improve driving comfort? Yes. It reduces eye strain, glare, and heat on sunny days.
How long will a 60% ceramic tint last? Up to 10 years with proper care. High-end films resist fading and peeling over time.
Final Thoughts on 60% Window Tint
A 60% window tint is the sweet spot for many drivers who want visible light, legal clarity, and reliable UV protection without making the car feel dark. It blends comfort, style, and function, especially when paired with ceramic film.
Looking for alternatives? Check our in-depth guides on 35%, 45%, and 70% window tints to find your perfect match.
For best results, go with a premium 60% ceramic film. Use the free Vehicle Tint Match Tool at CarKitAdvisor.com to find the right solution for your car and state laws.