If you have a medical window tint exemption in Florida, you are legally allowed to install darker window tint on your vehicle to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, glare, and excessive heat. But what happens if you decide to sell your vehicle? Does the exemption transfer to the new owner? Can you apply your exemption to your next car?
These are important questions for anyone with a medical window tint exemption in Florida. Selling a vehicle with exempted tint requires taking certain steps to stay compliant with Florida law and ensure the new owner does not face legal trouble.
This guide will explain what happens when you sell a vehicle with a window tint exemption, how to handle the exemption certificate, and what you need to do to apply your exemption to a new car.
Understanding Florida’s Medical Window Tint Exemption
A Florida medical window tint exemption allows individuals with certain medical conditions to install darker-than-legal tint on their vehicle. This exemption is necessary for people with conditions such as:
- Lupus
- Albinism
- Photosensitivity disorders
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum
- Severe skin conditions aggravated by sun exposure
The exemption is issued in the name of the registered vehicle owner and is tied to the specific vehicle listed on the exemption certificate. This means that while you are legally allowed to have darker tint, the exemption does not automatically transfer if you sell your vehicle.
What Happens If You Sell a Vehicle with an Exemption?
1. The Exemption Does Not Transfer to the New Owner
If you sell a vehicle with a medical window tint exemption, the exemption remains valid only for you as the original owner. The new owner does not automatically inherit the exemption, and if they keep the darker tint, they could be cited for a window tint violation.
To avoid issues, it is recommended that you:
- Inform the buyer that the tint is exempt under your name and that they may need to remove it or apply for their own exemption.
- Remove the darker tint before selling the vehicle if the new owner does not qualify for an exemption.
2. The New Owner May Face Legal Issues If They Keep the Dark Tint
If the new owner does not have a medical window tint exemption and they do not remove the dark tint, they could face the following:
- A window tint violation ticket, which can range from $116 to $250 per offense.
- A failed vehicle inspection, preventing them from renewing their registration.
- A requirement to remove the tint at their own expense.
To prevent these issues, it is best to advise the new owner to check Florida’s window tint laws and apply for their own exemption if needed.
3. You Will Need to Apply for a New Exemption for Your Next Vehicle
Since the exemption is tied to a specific vehicle, selling your car means you will need to apply for a new exemption if you purchase another vehicle.
Your previous exemption certificate cannot be used for a different vehicle, even if you are still the registered owner.
Steps to Take When Selling a Vehicle with a Window Tint Exemption
If you plan to sell your car and you have a medical window tint exemption, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Step 1: Decide Whether to Remove the Dark Tint
If the new owner does not have a medical condition that qualifies for an exemption, they may need to remove the darker tint to comply with Florida law.
Options include:
- Removing the tint before selling the car, ensuring that the new owner does not face legal issues.
- Informing the buyer about the medical exemption and advising them to apply for their own exemption if they want to keep the dark tint.
If the new owner qualifies for a medical exemption, they will need to apply for their own exemption through a licensed physician.
Step 2: Notify the Buyer About the Window Tint Exemption
Since your medical exemption does not transfer, you should be upfront with the buyer about the situation. You can say something like:
“This vehicle has darker window tint because I have a medical exemption. The exemption is tied to my name, so it does not transfer to you. If you keep the tint, you may need to apply for your own exemption or remove it to comply with Florida law.”
This prevents confusion and helps the buyer avoid potential fines or legal trouble.
Step 3: Apply for a New Window Tint Exemption for Your Next Vehicle
If you purchase another vehicle and still need a medical window tint exemption, you will need to apply for a new exemption for that specific vehicle.
ForeverTint makes it easy to apply for an exemption through a simple online process:
- Select Florida as Your State – Visit ForeverTint’s website and choose Florida.
- Purchase the Tint Exemption Service – If you qualify, purchase the service risk-free. If not, you receive a full refund.
- Schedule a Phone Consultation – A licensed physician will review your medical condition in a quick 5-10 minute phone call. No in-person visit is needed.
- Receive Your Signed Exemption Certificate – If approved, you will receive your physician-signed exemption form with instructions for submission.
- Submit Your Form to the Florida DMV – Once processed, you will be legally allowed to install darker window tint on your new vehicle.
What If You Buy a Vehicle That Already Has Dark Tint?
If you purchase a used vehicle that has darker-than-legal tint, you should:
- Ask the previous owner if the tint was legally exempt. If so, ask them to remove it before selling the vehicle to avoid issues.
- Check Florida’s tint laws to ensure the tint meets legal requirements.
- Apply for your own medical exemption if you need darker tint for health reasons.
- Remove or replace the tint if you do not qualify for an exemption but want to avoid getting a ticket.
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Selling a vehicle with a Florida medical window tint exemption requires careful planning to ensure compliance with state laws. The exemption is tied to the registered owner and specific vehicle, meaning it does not transfer to the new owner.
If you sell your car, take steps to:
- Inform the buyer about the exemption and Florida’s tint laws.
- Remove the darker tint if the new owner does not qualify for an exemption.
- Apply for a new exemption if you purchase another vehicle.
By handling the process correctly, you can avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth transition for both yourself and the new owner. If you still need a medical window tint exemption, ForeverTint makes it easy to apply online and stay legally protected.
