What is the legal window tint limit in Washington?

In Washington, front and back side windows must allow at least 24% of light through. The rear window can be any darkness, and the windshield may only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.

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

You book a telemedicine appointment with a licensed physician. If approved for a qualifying condition, you receive signed documentation to carry in your vehicle.

How long does the exemption last?

The exemption lasts as long as your physician recommends. Some may be permanent, others may require periodic renewal if your condition changes.

What happens if I drive without my paperwork?

If you are stopped and do not have your exemption documentation, you may be ticketed for illegal window tint. Fines are typically $136.

How much does the consultation and exemption paperwork cost?

The fee is $225. This includes your physician evaluation and the signed exemption documentation. If you do not qualify, you get your money back.

Can I use my Washington medical tint exemption in other states?

Some states may not honor Washington's exemption. Always check the laws in the state you are traveling to before driving with darker tint.

What's Included in a Washington Medical Tint Exemption

Washington drivers who need extra protection from the sun for medical reasons have a path to legally darker window tint. The state has clear rules about how dark tint can be on your vehicle, but it also recognizes that some medical conditions require more coverage. A medical tint exemption lets you go darker than the standard limit if you qualify. Here is a detailed look at what is included in a Washington medical tint exemption and how the process works from start to finish.

Washington Window Tint Laws: What Are the Limits?

If you own a vehicle in Washington, you probably know that the state regulates window tint to maintain road safety. Here are the key legal limits:

Front side windows: At least 24% visible light transmission (VLT) required. This means the tint must let in at least 24% of light.
Back side windows: Same as front, 24% VLT.
Rear window: Any darkness is allowed.
Windshield: Non-reflective tint only, and only above the AS-1 line (about the top 6 inches).

Violating these tint laws can result in a typical fine of $136. The regulations are strict, but if you have a legitimate medical need, Washington law allows you to apply for a window tint exemption.

What Conditions Qualify for a Tint Exemption?

Not every medical issue will get you an exemption. Only certain conditions where sunlight exposure poses a real health risk are considered. Some of the more common diagnoses include:

For a full list, check our All qualifying conditions page. If you are unsure whether your diagnosis qualifies, you can discuss it during your consultation.

How Does the Medical Exemption Process Work?

The Washington medical tint exemption process is built to be straightforward, while meeting every legal requirement. Here’s how it works step by step:

Book a consultation: You schedule a telemedicine appointment with a licensed physician. You can check if you qualify or book your exemption here.
Medical evaluation: During your appointment, the physician reviews your health history and current symptoms. They focus on how sunlight exposure affects your condition.
Qualification decision: If your condition meets the criteria, the doctor will approve you for a medical window tint exemption.
Signed documentation: You receive official paperwork, signed by the physician, stating your medical need for darker window tint. This is the legal proof you must keep with you in your vehicle at all times.

The one-time fee for the consultation and documentation is $225. This covers the physician’s evaluation and the signed exemption paperwork. If you do not qualify, you get your money back.

What Is Included With Your Exemption?

Telemedicine evaluation: Meet with a Washington-licensed physician remotely. No office visit required.
Thorough review of your diagnosis and symptoms: The doctor will assess whether your condition justifies a window tint exemption under state rules.
Legally valid documentation: If approved, you receive an exemption letter or certificate, completed and signed by the physician, that meets state requirements.
Instructions for use: Guidance on how to keep your paperwork in the vehicle and what to present if stopped by law enforcement.
Money-back guarantee: If you do not qualify, your payment is refunded in full.

Your documentation will state details about your medical need and the recommended duration for the exemption. In Washington, the exemption lasts as long as your physician recommends. If your medical situation changes, you may need to re-certify, but there is no fixed expiration date set by the state.

How to Stay Legal After Getting an Exemption

Once you have your signed exemption, you must follow a few simple steps to keep your tint legal in Washington:

Keep your documentation in the vehicle at all times. Law enforcement will expect to see this if they pull you over for dark tint.
Install tint according to your exemption. The paperwork should specify the level of darkness allowed based on your medical needs and your doctor’s recommendation.
Renew as needed. If your doctor set a time limit, make a note to renew before it expires.
Do not exceed the allowed tint darkness. Your exemption does not make you immune from all tint laws. It only covers what your doctor and the law approve.

If you travel out of Washington, remember other states may not honor your exemption. Always check local laws before driving across state lines with darker window tint.

Common Questions About Medical Tint Exemptions

People often have questions about what is covered and how the exemption works. Our Frequently asked questions page covers more details, but here are answers to top concerns:

Who qualifies? Only those with a medically documented need for reduced light exposure. Your doctor must agree it is necessary.
How long does the exemption last? It is good for the duration your physician recommends. There is no set state timeframe.
What if I lose my documentation? You must replace it as soon as possible to avoid a ticket.
How dark can my tint be? Your doctor will decide what is safe for your health, but it must be reasonable and based on your diagnosis.
How much does it cost? The total cost is $225, which includes the physician evaluation and exemption paperwork. If you do not qualify, you get a refund.

If you are ready to apply, you can schedule your exemption evaluation here. If you want more background about the service or the people behind it, see the About Washington Tint Exemption page.

Why Use a Professional Medical Tint Exemption Service?

There are a few reasons to use a dedicated exemption service instead of trying to get paperwork on your own:

Remote convenience: You meet with a physician from your home.
Legal validity: The paperwork you receive is prepared specifically for Washington requirements.
Refund if you do not qualify: You only pay if your medical need meets state standards.
Expert support: If you have questions about your condition or the process, the service can guide you. You can also find information about rare conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum or more common issues such as astigmatism on the site.

For recent updates or stories from people who have used the exemption, visit our Blog.

Final Tips for Washington Medical Tint Exemption Holders

Never drive without your exemption paperwork.
Only use tint shops familiar with medical exemptions. They should understand how to install film according to your physician’s letter.
If stopped by police, be polite and show your exemption immediately.
If you change vehicles, update your documentation quickly.

Following these steps will help you avoid legal trouble and keep your eyes, skin, and health protected on Washington roads.