Tennessee Medical Window Tint Exemption

Most people qualify for a medical window tint exemption & simply don't know it!

*Receive an immediate full refund if we cannot get you approved for a Legal Tint Exemption*

Understanding Window Tint Exemptions In Tennessee

While most drivers in Tennessee are required to follow the state’s standard window tint laws, Tennessee recognizes that certain medical conditions may require additional protection from sunlight. For qualifying individuals, Tennessee law allows for a medical window tint exemption. This exemption provides drivers the legal opportunity to request approval for darker window film than what is typically permitted under standard Tennessee tint regulations.

A window tint exemption in Tennessee allows you to request approval for window tint that would otherwise exceed the state’s standard legal limits—particularly on front side windows, which must normally allow more than 35% of visible light transmission. For individuals with medical conditions that increase sensitivity to sunlight or glare, this exemption can be essential. Without state approval, darker tint can result in citations. With proper medical documentation and state authorization, however, it becomes a lawful medical accommodation.

The exemption qualification process involves two parts:

1. Medical Justification

A licensed physician such as those provided by ForeverTint must verify that you have a qualifying condition that requires darker tint.

2. Legal Documentation

Unlike some states, Tennessee requires that documentation be submitted to the state for final approval. You must send the doctor’s note, a copy of your vehicle registration, and your driver’s license number to Driver Improvement for review. Once approved, the State of Tennessee issues a decal and a certificate signed by the Commissioner.

Some drivers wonder if a Tennessee window tint exemption allows unlimited darkness. It does not. The exemption provides a legal pathway to request darker tint for medical reasons, but final approval and limits are determined by the State of Tennessee.

ForeverTint streamlines the process by connecting you with a licensed physician and providing the required medical documentation if you qualify, so you can confidently submit your exemption request to the state.

What Is the Legal Tint Limit in Tennessee?

It’s important for all Tennessee drivers to understand the state’s window tint laws—even if you do not qualify for a medical window tint exemption. Tennessee has clear guidelines that regulate how dark your vehicle windows may be tinted. These laws are designed to maintain visibility and roadway safety while still allowing reasonable sun protection and privacy.

Windshield

Must allow more than 70% of light in. Tint is only permitted above the AS-1 line.

Front Side Windows

Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Back Side Windows

Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Rear Window

Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Reflectivity & Color

No mirrored or metallic appearance is allowed. Tennessee does not explicitly restrict tint colors, but reflective finishes are prohibited.

These restrictions mean that if you want darker-than-standard tint—especially on your windshield or front side windows—you must obtain approval through a Tennessee medical window tint exemption. Without state authorization, darker tint can result in citations. ForeverTint helps you determine if you qualify by connecting you with a licensed physician who understands Tennessee’s requirements, and if approved, you’ll receive the necessary medical documentation to submit to the state so you can legally request darker window tint under Tennessee law.

How To Get A Tint Exemption In Tennessee With ForeverTint

Purchasing your window tint exemption AND getting approved takes less than 10 minutes!

Traditionally, getting a tint exemption in Tennessee meant making an in-person doctor’s appointment, explaining your condition, and handling paperwork yourself. ForeverTint streamlines this entire process online:

Step 1

Confirm Your Eligibility

In the next section verify if you might have one of the qualifying conditions or something similar.

Step 2

Purchase Your All inclusive Appointment

If you think you might be eligible, select “Purchase Your Exemption” (Fully refundable if you don’t qualify).

Step 3

Meet With One Of Our Physicians

A member of our team will contact you to schedule your 5-10 minute verification phone call.

Step 4

Receive Your Physician Approval Letter

Get Approved and receive your signed approval paperwork within 72 hours!

*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.

Medical Conditions That Qualify For A Tennessee Tint Exemption

Tennessee law allows a medical window tint exemption for individuals with conditions that make exposure to sunlight harmful or medically problematic. These conditions often involve heightened sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, or heat. While final approval is determined by the State of Tennessee, below are some of the most commonly recognized medical concerns that may qualify:

Blurry Vision

Chronic or severe vision problems can be aggravated by bright sunlight. Darker tint can reduce glare, improve comfort while driving, and help protect eye health.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that can flare up due to heat and sunlight exposure. A tint exemption helps limit UV penetration, reducing the likelihood of painful flare-ups.

Skin Irritation Caused by Sunlight

Some people experience rashes, burning, or swelling when their skin is exposed to direct sunlight. Darker tint acts as a protective barrier to prevent these reactions.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where UV exposure can trigger serious symptoms, including skin lesions and fatigue. A window tint exemption allows for safer daily travel by reducing UV contact.

Photosensitivity Dermatitis

This condition causes skin inflammation and rash when exposed to light. Darker tint helps reduce UV exposure and prevent painful flare-ups.

Xeroderma (Abnormally Dry Skin)

Xeroderma makes skin especially sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to cracking, irritation, and damage. Extra tinting provides a layer of defense against sun-related irritation.

Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers

For individuals with melanoma or a history of skin cancer, limiting UV exposure is critical. A tint exemption allows for significantly safer protection during daily commutes.

Albinism

People with albinism lack the protective pigment melanin, making them extremely sensitive to sunlight. Darker tint reduces harmful UV rays that can damage both skin and eyes.

Porphyria

Porphyria is a group of disorders that make the skin and nervous system highly sensitive to sunlight. A tint exemption helps limit painful and potentially dangerous reactions.

Severe Burns or Scarring

Sunlight can worsen scarring and slow healing of severe burns. A window tint exemption offers ongoing protection during recovery and beyond.

Cockayne Syndrome

This rare genetic disorder causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight, leading to skin damage and other complications. A medical tint exemption provides necessary protection for daily life.

Bloom Syndrome

Bloom syndrome increases the risk of skin cancers due to UV sensitivity. Extra tinting safeguards individuals against unnecessary exposure while driving.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo reduces pigmentation in the skin, which removes natural protection against UV rays. Tint exemptions help protect depigmented skin from damage.

Autoimmune Diseases

Many autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or dermatomyositis, involve increased sensitivity to UV light. Darker tint protects patients from flare-ups linked to sun exposure.

Other Skin and Eye Conditions

Texas law also recognizes that there are many less common conditions that may cause extreme sensitivity to light. If your physician determines that darker tint is medically necessary, you may qualify for an exemption even if your condition is not listed here.

Tennessee Window Tint Medical Documentation – What You Need to Know

In Tennessee, having a medical condition that requires additional sun protection is only part of the process—you must also obtain proper documentation from a licensed physician and submit it to the state for approval before installing darker tint. Once approved, the state issues a decal and certificate that must be kept with your vehicle at all times while driving.

In Tennessee, having a medical condition that requires additional sun protection is only part of the process—you must also obtain proper documentation from a licensed physician and submit it to the state for approval before installing darker tint. Once approved, the state issues a decal and certificate that must be kept with your vehicle at all times while driving.

This medical documentation supports your Tennessee window tint exemption request and confirms that darker tint is medically necessary. However, Tennessee requires that it be submitted to the state for approval before darker tint is legally allowed. Without state authorization, you could still receive a citation, even if you have a qualifying condition.

What the Application Must Include:

To comply with Tennessee requirements, you must submit:

A doctor’s note signed by a licensed physician verifying medical necessity
A copy of your vehicle registration
Your driver’s license number

These materials must be submitted to the Tennessee Driver Improvement Section for review. If approved, the state will issue a decal and certificate signed by the Commissioner, which must be kept with your vehicle as official proof that your tint is legally authorized under Tennessee law.

Why Getting a Tint Exemption Matters

Tennessee does not accept verbal explanations alone as valid proof for darker window tint. Medical necessity must be properly documented and approved by the state. Without official approval and the issued certificate and decal, any tint darker than the legal limit—especially on your front side windows—can result in a citation, even if your medical needs are legitimate.

Is A Tennessee Medical Window Tint Exemption Really Legal? YES!

Tennessee Law:

Tennessee provides medical exemptions for darker-than-legal window tint (must allow >35% light) for conditions like lupus, melanoma, or extreme light sensitivity. Eligible drivers must submit a physician’s statement, vehicle registration, and driver’s license to the Department of Safety to receive a required exemption decal/certificate.

Source: TN Department of Safety & Homeland Security

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do you legally avoid tint tickets in Tennessee?

The only legal way to go darker than Tennessee’s standard tint limits is by obtaining a medical window tint exemption approved by the state. This requires physician documentation and submission to the Tennessee Driver Improvement Section. Without official state approval, darker tint can still result in a citation.

Does using an online company like ForeverTint provide a valid tint exemption for Tennessee?

ForeverTint connects you with a licensed physician who evaluates your condition and provides the required medical documentation if you qualify. However, Tennessee requires that you submit this documentation to the state for final approval. Once approved, the state issues the official certificate and decal.

What happens if I’m pulled over without my Tennessee tint exemption certificate?

If your tint appears darker than the legal limit and you cannot present your state-issued certificate and decal, you may receive a citation. Tennessee requires approved documentation to be kept with the vehicle. Always keep your exemption paperwork accessible while driving.

Can I tint my windows as dark as I want with a Tennessee medical exemption?

No. A medical exemption does not automatically allow unlimited darkness. Final approval and permitted tint levels are determined by the State of Tennessee based on your submitted documentation.

Do I need to apply with the state to get a Tennessee tint exemption?

Yes. Tennessee requires drivers to submit a doctor’s note, vehicle registration, and driver’s license number to the Driver Improvement Section for review. The exemption is not valid until the state approves and issues the official certificate and decal.

How do I get a medical window tint exemption in Tennessee?

First, you must be evaluated by a licensed physician who confirms medical necessity. If approved, you submit the required documents to the state for review. After approval, Tennessee issues the official exemption certificate and decal.

What medical conditions qualify for a Tennessee tint exemption?

Conditions that involve heightened sensitivity to sunlight, UV exposure, or glare may qualify. A licensed physician must determine medical necessity based on your specific condition. Final approval is granted by the State of Tennessee after review of your documentation.

Having a medical recommendation from a Doctor to have darker window tint does not guarantee you will not get a ticket. An officer can still give you a ticket at their own discretion. However, in our experience with existing customers if you take your ticket to court and provide your medical recommendation documents your ticket can be dismissed.