If you’re a Washington driver with a medical condition that makes sun exposure uncomfortable or harmful, you may be exploring options to legally install darker window tint. Washington law does allow for this—but it raises a common question: Do I need a doctor’s note for a Washington tint exemption?
The short answer is yes—but it’s more than just a casual note. The state requires official, physician-signed documentation that meets specific legal standards. In this blog, we’ll explain what kind of medical note is accepted, what it needs to include, and how ForeverTint makes the entire process fast, compliant, and easy to complete online.
Understanding Washington’s Tint Laws
Washington has clearly defined rules for how dark you can legally tint your vehicle’s windows. These laws are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT%), which measures how much light passes through the glass.
Here are the legal limits for most passenger vehicles in Washington:
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Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top 6 inches or above the AS-1 line.
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Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of visible light in.
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Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of visible light in.
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Rear Window: Must also allow more than 24% of light unless you have dual side mirrors.
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Reflectivity & Color Restrictions: Red, yellow, or amber-colored tint is prohibited. Reflective tint is not allowed.
If your tint is darker than these limits and you don’t have valid medical documentation, you could be pulled over and fined—even if your condition justifies the extra sun protection.
So, Do You Need a Doctor’s Note?
Yes, Washington law requires official medical documentation—often referred to as a “doctor’s note”—to approve a window tint exemption. But it’s not just any note scribbled on a pad. The document must meet strict criteria to be accepted by law enforcement or during a vehicle inspection.
What the Doctor’s Note Must Include
Washington doesn’t use a standardized DMV form like some states, but it does require that your medical tint exemption certificate includes the following:
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The full name and license number of a Washington-licensed physician or optometrist
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A statement indicating that the patient has a medical condition that requires darker window tint for health reasons
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The duration of the exemption (temporary or permanent)
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Your full name and identifying information
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The physician’s signature and contact information
This certificate must be kept in your vehicle at all times, and must be presented if you’re pulled over or asked for verification by law enforcement.
If the documentation is missing, incomplete, or unverifiable, you may still be cited—even if your condition is valid.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on Just Any Doctor
While your personal doctor may be able to write a letter, many general practitioners are unfamiliar with Washington’s tint exemption requirements. Some may leave out required details, or issue a letter that doesn’t meet legal formatting standards.
That’s where ForeverTint comes in.
We work with physicians who are specifically trained to handle medical window tint exemptions and know exactly what the state requires. Every certificate issued through ForeverTint is created to comply with Washington law, giving you peace of mind that your documentation will hold up if questioned.
To start your exemption process now, visit our Washington-specific page:
👉 https://forevertint.com/legal-tint-exemption-washington/
What Conditions Qualify for a Tint Exemption?
There’s no exhaustive list published by the state, but common conditions that may warrant a medical tint exemption include:
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Lupus
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Photosensitivity
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Albinism
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Skin cancer or a history of melanoma
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Chronic migraines triggered by light
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Eye conditions requiring limited exposure to visible light
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Rosacea or other sun-triggered dermatological conditions
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Post-surgery recovery or severe burns
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify. ForeverTint’s physicians assess each case individually during your phone consultation.
How ForeverTint Simplifies the Process
Getting a legally valid doctor’s note for a tint exemption doesn’t have to be time-consuming or difficult. ForeverTint offers a completely remote solution that takes just a few steps:
Step 1: Select Washington on Our Website
Visit https://forevertint.com/select-your-state/ and choose Washington as your state to ensure your exemption is processed in line with local laws.
Step 2: Purchase Your Exemption Package
Your purchase includes everything—consultation, documentation, and support.
Step 3: Complete a Brief Phone Consultation
A licensed physician will call you for a short 5–10 minute consultation to evaluate your condition.
Step 4: Receive Your Doctor-Signed Certificate
If you qualify, we’ll email you a Washington-compliant tint exemption certificate that you can print and keep in your vehicle. This certificate serves as your official “doctor’s note” and satisfies state law.
What Happens If You’re Pulled Over?
- If you’re pulled over for suspected illegal tint, an officer may use a tint meter to measure your windows. If your tint is darker than 24% VLT, they’ll ask for documentation.
- If you present your valid exemption certificate, the officer will review the physician’s details and statement. If everything is in order, you will not be ticketed for the tint, and your vehicle will be considered compliant under Washington law.
- If you don’t have your certificate with you—even if you have one at home—you can still be cited.
- What If You Don’t Qualify?
ForeverTint offers a full refund if our physician determines you don’t meet the requirements for a medical exemption. There’s no risk in starting the process—and most customers who apply do qualify based on common conditions like migraines, skin sensitivity, or photosensitivity.
Benefits of Using ForeverTint for Your Medical Note
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Fully compliant documentation that meets Washington state laws
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Licensed physicians familiar with tint exemption standards
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Quick turnaround—most receive documentation within 1–2 business days
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No in-person doctor visit required
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Risk-free with full refund if not approved
Final Thoughts: Get the Right Documentation, the Right Way
If you’re asking, “Do I need a doctor’s note for a Washington tint exemption?”—the answer is a firm yes. But not just any note will do. Washington requires a formal certificate issued by a licensed physician, complete with specific information to verify your medical need for darker tint.
ForeverTint gives you a simple, compliant, and fast way to get everything you need—without scheduling in-person appointments or dealing with state paperwork.
Ready To Get Your Legal Window Tint Today?
ForeverTint connects you with licensed physicians who understand Washington’s tint exemption laws and can issue valid, legally compliant documentation quickly and conveniently.
