If you’re driving with dark window tint in California, it’s natural to wonder whether having a legal medical exemption will prevent you from being pulled over. The short answer is: yes, police can still stop you—but that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It simply means you need to be prepared with proper documentation, including your physician-approved tint exemption prescription.
In this blog, we’ll break down what California law says about tint enforcement, what happens during a traffic stop, how a tint exemption protects you, and how ForeverTint makes the process easy and stress-free.
California window tint laws: an overview
California has strict regulations on how dark window tint can be, particularly for front-facing windows. These limits are outlined in California Vehicle Code Section 26708. Here are the basics:
- Windshield: Tint is only allowed on the top 4 inches.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of visible light through (VLT).
- Rear Side and Rear Windows: Can be darker, but only if the vehicle has dual side mirrors.
These laws are in place for safety reasons, ensuring law enforcement can see into vehicles and drivers can maintain visibility. Violating them can result in citations, removal orders, and inspection failures—unless you have a medical tint exemption.
What is a California window tint exemption?
A window tint exemption in California is a prescription issued by a licensed physician or optometrist stating that you have a medical condition that requires protection from sunlight or UV exposure. This document legally permits you to have darker-than-standard window tint.
Unlike other states, California does not require you to submit this exemption to the DMV or fill out state forms. You simply need a signed and dated letter (prescription) from your doctor that you keep in your vehicle at all times. This serves as your legal protection against tint-related citations.
ForeverTint offers a convenient online solution, connecting you to licensed California doctors who can review your condition and issue a valid prescription through a quick phone consultation.
So, can police still pull you over?
Yes. Law enforcement officers can legally stop any vehicle if they believe the tint violates California tint law, even if the driver has a valid medical exemption.
Here’s why:
- Police can’t tell from outside the car whether you have a medical exemption.
- Darker tint—especially on front windows—immediately appears suspicious.
- They are allowed to investigate whether the tint is legal.
In other words, your exemption does not prevent a stop, but it does provide the legal defense you need to avoid a citation or having to remove your tint.
What should you do during a traffic stop?
If you’re pulled over due to your window tint:
- Stay calm and respectful. Turn off your vehicle, roll down your windows, and keep your hands visible.
- Let the officer know upfront that you have a medical tint exemption.
- Present your signed physician’s prescription. This shows the officer you are legally allowed to have darker tint.
With a valid tint exemption on hand, most officers will acknowledge it, verify your information, and allow you to continue without any penalty. The key is having your documentation ready and clearly presented.
What happens if you don’t have the exemption on you?
Even if you have a legitimate medical condition and were approved by a doctor, you must carry your exemption in your vehicle at all times. California law doesn’t accept verbal explanations or after-the-fact claims.
If you’re pulled over and can’t show your exemption, the officer can issue a ticket or order you to remove the tint—even if you’re technically exempt. That’s why it’s critical to print or save a copy of your exemption in your glove box, or at minimum, have a digital copy accessible on your phone.
What should be on your exemption certificate?
Your tint exemption prescription must include:
- Your name as the patient
- The name, license number, and contact info of the physician or optometrist
- A statement of your medical need for darker tint
- The date of issue
- Whether the exemption is temporary or permanent
- The doctor’s signature
ForeverTint ensures all of these legal requirements are included when you receive your certificate via email after your consultation.
How ForeverTint helps you stay compliant
ForeverTint makes it simple for California drivers to obtain a legal and verifiable tint exemption by handling every part of the process online. You don’t need to visit a doctor in person or guess whether your documentation is acceptable.
Here’s how the process works:
- Go to ForeverTint.com
- Select California as your state
- Purchase the service package, which includes consultation and certification
- Complete a brief intake form outlining your condition
- Schedule a phone call with a licensed California physician
- Receive your signed window tint exemption certificate by email
You’ll then have everything you need to drive legally with darker tint—no guesswork, no DMV paperwork, and no hidden steps.
Will this stop future tickets?
A valid tint exemption doesn’t stop officers from pulling you over. However, it will prevent citations or legal consequences, as long as you present your certificate when asked. Think of it like having your driver’s license—it doesn’t stop police from checking, but it proves you’re allowed to drive when they do.
Also, keep in mind that:
- The exemption doesn’t allow unlimited darkness. Your tint should still allow reasonable visibility for law enforcement.
- If your tint is applied incorrectly or obstructs your windshield beyond 4 inches, you could still receive a citation for obstruction.
That’s why it’s best to work with a reputable tint installer who understands California’s regulations and can apply compliant film that meets your specific medical needs.
What if you’re denied an exemption?
If you purchase through ForeverTint and the licensed physician determines that you do not qualify, you’ll receive a full refund. Most applicants who suspect they may qualify are approved, but the evaluation is handled by a medical professional to ensure compliance.
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Even with a valid California tint exemption, law enforcement can still stop your vehicle if your tint looks darker than allowed by law. However, with a signed medical prescription in your possession, you are protected from penalties or demands to remove your tint.
By partnering with ForeverTint, you can get your legal exemption quickly, securely, and entirely online. Our licensed physicians understand what’s required, and we make sure your documentation meets every legal standard.
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