If you’re a Pennsylvania resident thinking about tinting your vehicle’s windows, you’ve likely asked yourself, “Are tinted windows legal in Pennsylvania?” The short answer is yes—but there are strict rules about how dark your tint can be, and those rules vary depending on the type of vehicle and the window being tinted.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s window tint laws is crucial to avoid fines, failed inspections, or being ordered to remove your tint altogether. However, there’s good news if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight. The state offers a medical tint exemption that allows you to legally use darker window film—with the proper documentation.
In this blog, we’ll break down what’s legal, what isn’t, and how you can qualify for an exemption if you need additional protection from the sun due to a health condition.
What Does Pennsylvania Law Say About Window Tint?
Pennsylvania tint law regulates the level of tint you’re allowed to apply to your vehicle’s windows based on a measurement called Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT refers to the percentage of light that can pass through the window and tint film. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
The legal limits are designed to ensure driver visibility and safety while also allowing law enforcement to see inside the vehicle during traffic stops.
Legal Window Tint Limits in Pennsylvania
The allowable tint varies depending on the type of vehicle:
For Passenger Cars (Sedans, Coupes, etc.)
- Windshield: Only non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line (a line typically marked near the top of the windshield by the manufacturer).
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in (70% VLT).
- Rear Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
For SUVs, Vans, and Other Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs)
- Windshield: Same as passenger vehicles—non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Rear Side Windows: No restriction on tint darkness.
- Rear Window: No restriction on tint darkness.
These laws mean that the only parts of your vehicle where darker-than-standard tint is automatically legal are the rear side and rear windows of SUVs and MPVs—not passenger cars.
Are There Restrictions on Reflective or Colored Tint?
Yes. Pennsylvania law also prohibits:
- Reflective or mirror-like tint that can bounce light back or create a glare
- Red, yellow, or amber tint colors on the windshield or front side windows
Tint must be non-reflective and should not create a metallic or mirrored look.
What Happens If You Violate Tint Laws in Pennsylvania?
If your window tint does not meet Pennsylvania’s legal standards and you don’t have a medical exemption, you could face the following consequences:
- A traffic citation or fine
- A vehicle inspection failure
- An order to remove or replace your tint
- Possible court appearances for repeat offenses
Even if your tint was installed professionally, you are still responsible for ensuring it meets state requirements. That’s why it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities before getting your windows tinted.
How to Legally Get Darker Tint in Pennsylvania
If you have a qualifying medical condition, Pennsylvania allows you to install window tint darker than the legal limit—but only with a valid medical tint exemption.
This exemption must come in the form of a physician-signed document (often called an online window tint prescription) and should be kept in your vehicle at all times. It serves as proof that your tint is legally authorized due to health-related needs.
Conditions That May Qualify for a Medical Tint Exemption
Many Pennsylvania residents qualify for a tint exemption due to medical conditions, including:
- Chronic migraines
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Lupus and other autoimmune conditions
- Eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders
- History of skin cancer
- Glaucoma or cataracts
- Neurological disorders impacted by sunlight
- Recovery from surgery or skin treatments requiring limited UV exposure
Even if your specific condition isn’t listed here, you may still qualify if your health is negatively affected by sun exposure while driving.
How to Get a Medical Tint Exemption Online in Pennsylvania
ForeverTint offers a fast, hassle-free way to obtain your legal tint exemption without visiting a doctor’s office or dealing with paperwork. The entire process is completed online, and most customers receive their certificate within 24 hours.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Visit the ForeverTint Website
Go to https://forevertint.com/select-your-state/ and select Pennsylvania. This ensures your exemption meets the state’s specific legal requirements.
Step 2: Purchase the Service Package
ForeverTint offers a medical tint exemption package that includes a consultation with a licensed physician. If your condition qualifies, the doctor will issue a signed exemption certificate.
If you’re not approved, you’ll receive a full refund—no risk involved.
Step 3: Complete a Phone Consultation
After your purchase, ForeverTint will contact you to schedule a 5–10 minute phone call with a licensed physician. During the call, you’ll discuss your symptoms and how sunlight affects your condition.
There are no video calls or in-person appointments. Everything is handled over the phone for your convenience.
Step 4: Receive Your Medical Exemption Certificate
Once approved, you’ll receive a signed certificate via email that includes:
- Confirmation of your qualifying condition
- A statement of medical necessity
- The physician’s signature and license number
Print it and keep it in your vehicle to show law enforcement if needed.
What to Expect During a Traffic Stop
If you’re pulled over and questioned about your window tint:
- Remain calm and polite
- Let the officer know you have a medical exemption
- Present your signed certificate from ForeverTint
Because the document contains all required information, the officer can quickly verify its validity and you’ll be on your way without issue.
Conclusion: Yes, Tinted Windows Are Legal in PA—With the Right Documentation
So, are tinted windows legal in Pennsylvania? The answer is yes, but only within the limits outlined by state law. If you need darker tint due to a medical condition, you must obtain a legally valid exemption to stay compliant.
ForeverTint makes it easy to get the documentation you need, with a simple online process, fast physician approval, and a certificate that meets Pennsylvania’s legal standards.
Ready To Get Your Legal Tint Exemption?
If you need darker tint for health reasons, don’t take chances with fines or failed inspections. Get your physician-approved medical tint exemption online today.
Visit https://forevertint.com/select-your-state/ and select Pennsylvania to begin your application in minutes.
