*Receive an immediate full refund if we cannot get you approved for a Legal Tint Exemption*
In California, a medical window tint exemption allows individuals with qualifying health conditions to legally install window film darker than what is typically allowed under state law. This is especially important for people who are highly sensitive to sunlight or UV radiation. Without a medical exemption, darker tint on front side windows would normally be illegal—but with a valid doctor’s prescription, it becomes a legal and recognized medical accommodation.
What does the exemption process involve?:
It’s important to note that a medical exemption does not give unlimited freedom to apply extremely dark or reflective tints. Your tint should still be within reason and consistent with the medical need specified by your physician.
Forever Tint streamlines the entire process by connecting you with a licensed California physician for a short consultation. If approved, your signed medical tint exemption is delivered by email, along with clear instructions to help you stay compliant on the road.
It’s important to note that a medical exemption does not give unlimited freedom to apply extremely dark or reflective tints. Your tint should still be within reason and consistent with the medical need specified by your physician.
Forever Tint streamlines the entire process by connecting you with a licensed California physician for a short consultation. If approved, your signed medical tint exemption is delivered by email, along with clear instructions to help you stay compliant on the road.
Even if you don’t qualify for a medical tint exemption, it’s important to understand California’s window tint laws. The state has strict guidelines designed to balance driver safety with personal comfort and sun protection. According to California Vehicle Code Section 26708, these limits exist to ensure clear visibility for both drivers and law enforcement while still allowing for limited use of window film.
These restrictions mean that if you want darker-than-standard tint—especially on your windshield or front side windows—you’ll need a California medical window tint exemption. ForeverTint makes the process simple by helping you determine if you qualify. Most people do, and with your physician-signed exemption, you can legally install darker tint without the risk of tickets or violations.
Traditionally, getting a tint exemption in California meant making an in-person doctor’s appointment, explaining your condition, and handling paperwork yourself. ForeverTint streamlines this entire process online:
*For any reason should you not be approved for a Legal Medical Window Tint Exemption you will receive an immediate refund. In our experience only 1 out of every 50 applicants are not approved.
California allows a medical window tint exemption for individuals whose health conditions make sun exposure dangerous or uncomfortable. These conditions often involve extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays, visible light, or heat. Below are some of the most commonly recognized medical conditions that may qualify you for an exemption in California:
Blurry vision can be a symptom of underlying eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. Bright light or glare may worsen vision problems, making driving uncomfortable or unsafe. A California tint exemption allows individuals with vision-related sensitivities to legally install darker tints to reduce glare and improve safety.
Eczema causes inflamed, itchy skin that can worsen with sun exposure and heat. UV rays can trigger flare-ups or intensify discomfort for people with this condition. A medical tint exemption can provide needed protection by limiting direct sunlight inside the vehicle.
Many people experience skin irritation when exposed to sunlight due to heightened sensitivity or certain medications. Darker tint reduces UV exposure, preventing flare-ups or discomfort during travel. A tint exemption allows them to legally obtain this level of protection in California.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which sunlight can trigger severe rashes, fatigue, and joint pain. UV exposure is especially harmful for lupus patients, making darker window tint an essential accommodation. With a physician-signed exemption, Californians with lupus can legally install darker tint to protect their health.
Photosensitivity dermatitis is a skin reaction caused by UV exposure, resulting in rashes, itching, or burning. Even brief sunlight exposure through car windows can trigger symptoms. A tint exemption allows patients to legally use darker tint to reduce UV exposure and manage their condition.
Xeroderma, or abnormally dry skin, can be aggravated by sunlight and heat, leading to painful cracking or irritation. Reducing UV rays through tinted windows helps protect sensitive skin. This makes xeroderma a qualifying condition for a California window tint exemption.
Individuals with melanoma or a history of skin cancer must avoid excessive UV exposure to prevent recurrence or further damage. Standard vehicle windows don’t block enough UV radiation to protect them. A medical tint exemption allows darker tint to act as a stronger barrier between the sun and the skin.
People with albinism lack sufficient melanin, making their skin and eyes extremely sensitive to sunlight. This sensitivity increases the risk of burns, skin damage, and vision problems. A California tint exemption provides a legal way to minimize exposure and protect their health while driving.
Porphyria is a rare metabolic disorder that causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight, often leading to painful blisters and other severe symptoms. For those affected, even brief exposure through a car window can be dangerous. A tint exemption allows them to legally install darker window films to shield against UV rays.
Individuals with severe burns or scarring may have skin that is highly vulnerable to sunlight and temperature changes. Darker window tint can protect these areas from further damage or discomfort. A medical exemption ensures they can install protective film without violating California’s tint laws.
Cockayne syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by growth failure, neurological issues, and heightened sensitivity to UV light. Those with this condition benefit greatly from darker tint to protect their delicate skin and eyes. A tint exemption allows them to legally obtain this protection in California.
Bloom syndrome is another rare genetic disorder that makes individuals highly sensitive to sunlight, often resulting in rashes or increased cancer risk. Shielding from UV rays is critical to managing the condition. A California tint exemption provides the legal right to apply darker tint for safety.
Vitiligo causes loss of skin pigment, making affected areas more prone to sunburn and irritation. Protecting these vulnerable patches from UV rays is essential for comfort and skin health. With a medical tint exemption, individuals can legally reduce sunlight exposure inside their vehicles.
Many autoimmune diseases, such as scleroderma or dermatomyositis, increase sensitivity to sunlight and UV radiation. This heightened sensitivity can trigger painful or damaging reactions. A tint exemption ensures these individuals can legally install darker tint to minimize risks.
Various other chronic skin or eye conditions—such as photophobia, post-surgical recovery, or medication-induced sensitivity—also increase vulnerability to sunlight. A California tint exemption gives these individuals legal access to darker window film to protect their health and comfort while driving.
In California, having a medical condition that requires a darker tint is only part of the process — you also need a properly written prescription from a licensed physician to make your tint legal.
The California medical window tint exemption prescription is the official document that allows you to install film darker than state law typically permits. Without this physician-issued statement, you may still be ticketed for non-compliant tint, even if you have a valid medical condition.
Your doctor’s written prescription must contain:
This prescription must be kept in your vehicle at all times. If you are pulled over by law enforcement or questioned about your tint, showing this documentation proves your exemption is valid under California law.
California does not have a DMV form or online state application for tint exemptions. Verbal claims, handwritten notes, or outdated documents will not protect you from a citation. The only legally recognized exemption is a written prescription signed by a licensed physician — and without it, darker window tint is still considered illegal.
26708 Section (e), points (2) and (4)
(e) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), clear, colorless, and transparent material may be installed, affixed, or applied to the windshield, side, or rear windows of a motor vehicle if the following conditions are met:
(2) The window glazing with the material applied meets all requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205 (49 C.F.R. 571.205), including the specified minimum light transmittance of 70 percent and the abrasion resistance of AS–14 glazing, as specified in that federal standard.
(4) The driver has in his or her possession, or within the vehicle, a certificate signed by a licensed dermatologist certifying that the person should not be exposed to ultraviolet rays because of a medical condition that necessitates clear, colorless, and transparent film material to be installed on the windshield, side, or rear windows.
The only legal way to have darker-than-standard tint in California is through a signed prescription from a licensed physician. Attempting to drive with dark tint without proper documentation can result in citations and forced tint removal. A valid California tint exemption protects both your health and your legal rights.
Yes. California law requires a physician’s written prescription—there is no requirement for in-person visits or a DMV submission. ForeverTint connects you with a licensed physician by phone and delivers a signed prescription that meets all legal requirements in California.
Police can still pull you over if your tint appears darker than legal limits. But with your signed medical tint exemption prescription in hand, law enforcement will recognize your tint as compliant. Always keep the document in your vehicle.
Yes. California requires a licensed physician to issue a written prescription stating that you need darker window tint for medical reasons. ForeverTint arranges this process for you online through a phone consultation with a licensed doctor.
It’s a signed document from a licensed physician stating that your medical condition requires darker window tint. California does not require a DMV form—just the prescription. This document must be kept in your vehicle at all times.
Yes. Officers can pull over any vehicle that appears to violate tint laws. But once you show your valid prescription from a licensed physician, your exemption will be honored under California law.
ForeverTint offers a full refund if a physician determines you don’t qualify during your consultation. Most customers do qualify, and you won’t be charged if the exemption can’t be approved.