For Florida residents who have received an online window tint exemption, having the proper documentation on hand is just as important as the exemption itself. While your approved medical tint allows you to legally have darker-than-standard window tint, failing to carry your exemption certificate in your vehicle could lead to unnecessary complications, including fines or legal disputes.
In this blog, we’ll cover why it’s crucial to always keep your Florida medical tint exemption certificate in your vehicle, what happens if you are pulled over without it, and how to ensure your exemption remains valid at all times.
Understanding Florida’s Medical Window Tint Exemption
Florida has strict window tint laws that regulate how dark your vehicle’s windows can be. However, individuals with certain medical conditions can apply for an online window tint exemption, allowing them to install darker tint legally. This exemption is granted through a physician-approved process, ensuring that individuals who need protection from harmful UV rays and excessive sunlight exposure can do so within the boundaries of the law.
Qualifying medical conditions for an online window tint exemption in Florida include:
- Lupus
- Photosensitivity disorders
- Albinism
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum
- Severe skin conditions aggravated by sun exposure
- Other conditions as determined by a licensed physician
Once approved, individuals receive a signed medical tint exemption certificate, which must be kept in their vehicle at all times to remain legally compliant.
What Happens If You Are Pulled Over Without Your Medical Tint Exemption Certificate?
Florida law enforcement officers are trained to recognize window tint violations. If your vehicle’s tint appears darker than what is legally allowed, an officer has the right to stop you and request documentation proving that you have a legal exemption.
If you do not have your medical tint exemption certificate with you at the time of the stop, you may face the following consequences:
1. Receiving a Window Tint Violation Ticket
Without immediate proof of exemption, an officer may issue a citation for illegal window tint. Depending on the county, fines for window tint violations in Florida can range from $116 to $250 per offense. Even if you later provide proof of exemption, you may still have to go through the process of contesting the ticket in court.
2. Being Required to Remove or Adjust Your Tint
In some cases, law enforcement officers may instruct you to remove or replace your window tint to comply with state regulations. This could mean an unnecessary expense and inconvenience, even if you are legally exempt.
3. Delays and Legal Hassles
If you do not have your exemption certificate on hand, you may need to take additional steps to prove your exemption to the courts or the DMV. This could involve appearing before a judge, submitting official paperwork, or even paying administrative fees to resolve the issue.
By keeping your exemption certificate in your vehicle at all times, you can avoid these unnecessary problems and ensure that you remain legally protected.
Where Should You Store Your Medical Tint Exemption Certificate?
To ensure that your exemption is always accessible, consider storing it in one of the following locations:
- Inside Your Glove Compartment – This is one of the safest and most convenient places to keep your exemption certificate. It remains protected from damage and can be accessed quickly if needed.
- With Your Vehicle Registration and Insurance Card – Law enforcement officers typically ask for vehicle registration and insurance during a traffic stop. Keeping your exemption certificate with these documents ensures that you always have it when needed.
- In a Protective Folder or Envelope – To prevent your certificate from being damaged, keep it in a plastic sleeve, small folder, or envelope inside your vehicle. This protects against wear and tear over time.
Avoid keeping your exemption certificate in places where it could be lost or easily damaged, such as loose inside the car or in a location where it could be exposed to excessive heat or moisture.
How to Get a Replacement If You Lose Your Certificate
If your medical tint exemption certificate is lost, damaged, or stolen, it is essential to replace it as soon as possible to avoid potential legal issues. The steps for obtaining a replacement depend on how your exemption was originally processed.
1. Contact ForeverTint
If you received your online window tint exemption through ForeverTint, reach out to our customer support team. In many cases, we can provide a replacement certificate or guide you through the process of obtaining a new one.
2. Request a Duplicate from the Florida DMV
Since Florida requires a physical physician-signed document for a medical tint exemption, you may need to request a duplicate from the DMV if your exemption was filed with them. This process may involve submitting additional paperwork or providing proof of your original exemption approval.
3. Schedule a Consultation for Re-Evaluation
If your exemption certificate was issued some time ago, you may need to undergo a re-evaluation with a licensed physician to confirm that your condition still qualifies for the exemption. This ensures that your exemption remains valid and up to date.
To avoid the hassle of replacing your certificate, always store it in a safe location inside your vehicle.
Ensuring Your Medical Tint Exemption Remains Valid
While medical window tint exemptions do not typically expire, certain factors can impact their validity:
- Changes in Florida Window Tint Laws – Always stay informed about updates to state tint regulations to ensure that your exemption remains compliant.
- Medical Condition Reevaluation – Some medical conditions may require periodic reevaluation to maintain exemption status. If your condition changes, consult a physician to determine whether you still qualify.
- Moving to Another State – If you relocate, be aware that window tint exemption laws vary by state. If your exemption was issued in Florida, it may not be valid in another state, and you may need to apply for a new exemption under that state’s regulations.
By keeping your exemption certificate current and following legal requirements, you can continue to benefit from your medical window tint exemption without any disruptions.
Always Keep Your Florida Medical Tint Exemption Certificate in Your Vehicle
A medical tint exemption allows Florida residents with qualifying conditions to install darker window tint legally, providing essential protection from UV exposure and excessive sunlight. However, simply having an exemption is not enough—you must always keep your exemption certificate in your vehicle to avoid potential fines, citations, or unnecessary legal hassles.
By storing your exemption certificate in a secure and easily accessible location, you ensure that you are always prepared in case of a traffic stop. If your certificate is lost or damaged, take immediate steps to replace it to maintain your legal protection.
If you haven’t applied for an online window tint exemption yet, ForeverTint makes the process simple and hassle-free. Visit our website today to see if you qualify and secure your medical tint exemption in Florida.
