Many Colorado drivers with light-sensitive medical conditions ask what happens at a traffic stop if their tint is dark and they have, or do not have, a physician’s Window Tint Recommendation with them. The answer starts with one fact: Colorado has no medical window tint exemption. A recommendation does not change the state’s tint limits and does not prevent a citation. This article explains what Colorado law says, what to expect during a stop, and how a recommendation fits in. For the full state overview, see our Colorado Window Tint Recommendation page.
Colorado’s Tint Limits Apply to Every Driver
Colorado’s window tint law is C.R.S. 42-4-227. It contains no medical exemption, and Colorado has no state permit, DMV application, or medical tint program. Under the statute:
- Windshield: must allow at least 70% light transmittance. Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top four inches.
- Other windows: must allow at least 27% light transmittance.
- Windows behind the driver: the rear side windows and rear window may be darker than 27% only if the windshield and front side windows allow at least 70% light transmittance.
These limits are the same whether or not you have a medical condition or a physician’s recommendation.
What Happens at a Traffic Stop for Dark Tint
Every stop is different and depends on the officer and the circumstances. In general, a stop involving window tint follows this pattern:
- The officer notices tint that may be too dark. Tint that appears darker than the legal limit can be the reason for the stop, or it can be noticed during a stop for something else.
- You provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance. Keep these within easy reach and follow the officer’s instructions.
- The officer may check the tint. An officer may measure light transmittance with a tint meter or judge it visually.
- The officer decides what to do. If the tint does not meet C.R.S. 42-4-227, the officer may issue a citation or a warning. Under the statute, a violation is a class B traffic infraction.
Separately, the statute makes it a class A traffic infraction for a person to install or apply tint so that a windshield or window does not meet the law’s light transmittance requirements. That applies to the installer, not only the driver.
What If You Have a Window Tint Recommendation?
A Window Tint Recommendation is a medical document from a licensed physician. It states the physician’s opinion that additional protection from sunlight is medically appropriate for you. It is not a permit, and it has no legal effect under Colorado law.
That means:
- A recommendation does not allow tint darker than Colorado’s limits.
- A recommendation does not prevent a citation if your tint is darker than the law allows.
- An officer is not required to accept it as a reason not to cite you.
Some drivers choose to keep a copy in the vehicle so they have their physician’s written opinion on hand. That is a personal choice, not a legal requirement, and it does not change the outcome of a stop.
What If You Are Pulled Over Without It?
Because the recommendation has no legal effect, not having it with you does not change the legal result. The officer evaluates your tint against the limits in C.R.S. 42-4-227. If your tint meets the limits, there is no tint violation, with or without a recommendation. If it does not meet them, you may be cited, with or without a recommendation.
Can You Still Receive a Citation?
Yes. Any tint darker than Colorado’s limits can be cited, whatever your medical situation. The way to avoid a tint citation in Colorado is to keep your tint within the legal limits.
Practical Steps for Drivers With Light Sensitivity
- Keep tint within the legal limits. Ask your installer to confirm the light transmittance of the film and glass together. Keep the receipt showing the film used.
- Ask about UV-blocking film. Many clear or light films block most ultraviolet light while still allowing at least 70% or 27% light transmittance, depending on the window.
- Use other protection. Sunglasses prescribed by your eye doctor, UV-protective clothing, and sunscreen add protection without affecting tint compliance.
- Talk with a physician. A physician can review your condition and advise which protective measures make sense for you.
How ForeverTint’s Colorado Recommendation Works
If you want a physician’s written recommendation, ForeverTint offers a Colorado Window Tint Recommendation. An independent licensed physician reviews your medical history by chart review, and occasionally a brief phone call. Conditions commonly reviewed include lupus, porphyria, xeroderma pigmentosum, albinism, photosensitivity dermatitis, melanoma and other skin cancers, and light-sensitive eye conditions. If you qualify, your recommendation is delivered electronically so you can print it. If the physician determines you do not qualify, you receive a full refund.
Remember that the recommendation is medical documentation only. It does not change Colorado’s tint limits.
You can read more on our Colorado Window Tint Recommendation page, visit the Colorado purchase page, or read experiences from other customers on our ForeverTint Reviews page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colorado have a medical window tint exemption?
No. C.R.S. 42-4-227 contains no medical exemption, and Colorado has no state permit or DMV program for medical tint.
Will a Window Tint Recommendation stop me from getting a tint ticket in Colorado?
No. A recommendation has no legal effect. If your tint is darker than Colorado’s limits, you may be cited whether or not you have one.
What is the penalty for illegal tint in Colorado?
Under C.R.S. 42-4-227, a violation is a class B traffic infraction. Installing tint that does not meet the light transmittance requirements is a class A traffic infraction.
Do I have to carry my recommendation in the vehicle?
No. Colorado law does not require it. Some drivers keep a copy for their own records.
