Window tint laws are taken seriously in Florida, and for good reason. The state’s regulations are designed to strike a balance between driver comfort, safety, and law enforcement visibility. However, Florida also recognizes that some individuals have legitimate medical needs that require additional protection from sunlight and UV exposure. That’s where medical tint exemptions come into play.
If you’ve been approved for a medical window tint exemption in Florida—or you’re considering applying—you might be asking: How dark can my tint actually be with an exemption? It’s a common question and an important one. Installing tint that goes beyond legal limits without proper documentation can still result in fines or a failed vehicle inspection. But when done correctly and with the proper exemption in place, you can enjoy enhanced protection without breaking the law.
Let’s break down what Florida tint law says, what your medical tint exemption allows, and how ForeverTint can help you get and stay compliant.
Florida’s standard window tint limits
Before diving into how much darker you can go with a medical exemption, it’s important to understand the standard tint limits set by the state. These apply to all Florida vehicles unless an exemption is granted.
Here are the standard legal tint levels in Florida:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of visible light to pass through (28% VLT or higher).
- Back Side Windows: Can be any darkness.
- Rear Window: Can be any darkness.
These rules are enforced by law enforcement and vehicle inspection centers. Drivers found with tint darker than the allowed limits on the front side windows or windshield risk being issued a citation unless they can show valid medical documentation.
What changes with a medical window tint exemption?
A medical window tint exemption in Florida allows you to legally install darker-than-normal tint on your vehicle. This exemption is granted to individuals whose medical conditions require reduced exposure to sunlight, UV rays, or visible light. Conditions such as lupus, albinism, photosensitivity, migraines, skin cancer, and other UV-related conditions are common qualifying reasons.
Once you are approved, your physician will complete the HSMV 83390 form, the official documentation recognized by the Florida DMV. This form must be submitted to the state and a copy kept in your vehicle at all times.
With this exemption in hand, you’re allowed to exceed the usual tint restrictions on your front side windows and windshield—the areas where tint laws are most restrictive for the general public.
How dark can your tint be with the exemption?
Here’s the part most people want to know: just how dark can I legally tint my windows if I have a medical exemption?
Florida law does not specify a numerical limit for medical exemptions. That’s because the tint level must be determined on a case-by-case basis based on your medical needs and the recommendation from your licensed physician. However, most window tint shops familiar with Florida laws will know how to interpret this correctly and install an appropriate level of darkness that meets your exemption.
Common practice with a medical exemption:
- Windshield: You may be permitted to apply a light tint over the entire windshield, not just above the AS-1 line, depending on your physician’s recommendation.
- Front Side Windows: You can typically go much darker than 28% VLT, sometimes even as dark as 20%, 15%, or 5% VLT, depending on your condition.
- Back Side & Rear Windows: These can already be any darkness, so no changes are typically needed unless you want uniformity across all windows.
The most important thing to understand is that your tint installer should be guided by your physician’s documented recommendation. A reputable installer will also advise you to keep a copy of your medical exemption certificate in your glove compartment, as required by law.
Do police have access to my exemption status?
No, law enforcement officers cannot automatically see whether you have a medical exemption by simply running your license plate or VIN. This is why it is essential that you carry a physical copy of your signed exemption form (HSMV 83390) in your vehicle at all times.
If you’re pulled over, present your documentation when asked. Your form should include:
- Your full name and identifying information
- The reason for the exemption
- The signature and license number of the approving physician
- The duration of the exemption (some are temporary, some are permanent)
This will protect you from receiving a ticket for tint that otherwise appears illegal.
How ForeverTint makes compliance easy
At ForeverTint, we simplify the process of getting a Florida medical tint exemption and help ensure your tint is compliant with state law. Here’s how we do it:
- You start by selecting Florida as your state on our Select Your State page.
- You purchase the exemption service package and complete a brief pre-qualification.
- Within 24 hours, we contact you to schedule a 5–10 minute phone consultation with one of our licensed physicians.
- If you qualify, we complete and mail your signed HSMV 83390 form, along with step-by-step instructions to finish the process.
- Most customers qualify, and if for any reason you’re denied, we offer a full refund.
You’ll receive the legal documentation needed to go darker than standard limits—legally, safely, and stress-free.
What happens if your tint is too dark without an exemption?
Installing tint darker than Florida law allows—without a medical exemption—is considered a traffic violation. Penalties can include:
- A noncriminal traffic infraction
- Fines and court costs
- Potential requirement to remove or replace the tint
- Issues during your next vehicle inspection
That’s why it’s critical to complete the exemption process properly before installing darker window tint.
Ready to make your Tint exemption purchase?
If you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight or UV rays, there’s no need to risk a citation or compromise your health. ForeverTint can help you obtain a valid medical tint exemption that allows you to legally install darker window tint in Florida.
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