Windshield Tint Strips and Washington Law

Washington drivers often ask about windshield tint strips and how state law handles medical tint exemptions. Whether you need extra eye protection or want to avoid a costly ticket, knowing the facts matters. This guide covers Washington’s legal limits, when you can go darker for health reasons, and how to get a physician-approved exemption that stands up to law enforcement.

Washington Window Tint Rules

Every state sets its own rules for window tint. In Washington, the law is clear and specific about how much tint you can use and where on your vehicle you can apply it. Here is what you need to know:

• Front side windows: 24% visible light transmission (VLT) is the minimum allowed. This means the window must let at least 24% of outside light through.
• Back side windows: Same as the front, minimum 24% VLT.
• Rear window: Any darkness is allowed.
• Windshield: Non-reflective tint only, and it must be above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches of the windshield.

If you go darker than these limits without an exemption, you risk a ticket. The typical fine for illegal tint in Washington is $136. Officers often check tint levels during routine stops, so being over the limit can cost you.

Windshield Tint Strips: What’s Legal?

Washington allows a non-reflective tint strip at the top of your windshield. This strip can go above the AS-1 line (marked on most windshields) or, if that is not visible, the top 6 inches. The tint cannot be reflective and must stop at that line. Applying tint lower than allowed, or using a reflective film, is not permitted unless you have a valid medical exemption.

This upper strip is designed to reduce sun glare and improve comfort. It also protects your eyes during long commutes or when driving toward the setting sun. But if you need more coverage because of a genuine medical condition, Washington law does provide a path.

When a Medical Exemption Makes Sense

Some Washington residents need extra protection from sunlight because of medical conditions. These can include severe light sensitivity, certain autoimmune diseases, or a history of skin cancer. If ordinary legal tint is not enough, you may qualify for a medical exemption. Medical tint exemptions let you use darker, more protective film in areas of the vehicle that would usually be restricted under state law, including the windshield below the AS-1 line.

Common conditions that may qualify include photophobia, migraines, lupus, and several others. See the full list of all qualifying conditions. For example, those with photophobia or lupus often need additional protection to prevent medical flare-ups or pain caused by UV exposure. The same goes for those with a history of melanoma or albinism.

Washington’s Medical Exemption: How It Works

Washington does allow a medical exemption for window tint. To qualify, you need documentation from a licensed physician. This is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it is not automatic. The duration of an exemption is based on the doctor’s recommendation, so it could be temporary or long-term depending on your medical need.

Here’s how the process works with our service:

1. You book a telemedicine consultation for $225, a one-time fee. This covers your evaluation by a licensed physician and all documentation.
2. If you qualify, the doctor provides signed exemption documentation. If you do not qualify, you get your money back.
3. You keep the exemption paperwork with you in your vehicle. Washington law requires you to have it on hand in case you are pulled over.

Medical exemptions do not allow unlimited tint. The specifics, how dark, which windows, are laid out in your doctor’s recommendation and must match the form you carry. Police will check both your tint and your documents if they stop you. The key is to only go as dark as your medical exemption allows and always keep your paperwork in the car.

Common Qualifying Conditions for Tint Exemption

There are several medical reasons someone might need more windshield tint. The most common in Washington include:

• Photophobia (severe light sensitivity)
• Migraines triggered by light exposure
• Lupus and other autoimmune diseases aggravated by UV
• Melanoma or a history of skin cancer
• Albinism or other disorders causing extreme sensitivity to sunlight

Not sure if you qualify? Our FAQ and all qualifying conditions pages have more details. You can also check if you qualify and schedule a telemedicine visit with a Washington-licensed physician. The process is fast, and you will know during your appointment if you qualify for an exemption.

Keeping Your Exemption Legal

Having a medical exemption does not mean you can ignore all tint laws. Here’s what you need to stay safe and legal:

• Carry your signed physician documentation in your vehicle at all times. If stopped, present it to the officer.
• Only install tint that matches the specifics in your exemption (location, darkness, duration).
• Renew or update your exemption as needed, based on your physician’s recommendation.
• If you sell or transfer the vehicle, remove any non-legal tint unless the new owner also qualifies for and obtains a valid exemption.

This is important. Driving with illegal tint and no exemption document can still get you a ticket. Even with an exemption, if the tint is darker than your documentation allows, you may be cited. Officers in Washington are trained to check both the VLT level and your paperwork.

Windshield Tint and Sun Protection in Washington

Washington’s climate is milder than some states, but bright sun, glare, and reflected light are still real hazards. Many drivers with medical needs find a legal tint exemption makes a huge difference in comfort and health. For some, it is not just comfort, it is about preventing medical episodes or long-term skin damage. Whether you are considering it for migraines, photophobia, or another condition, make sure your documentation is always kept up to date.

If you or a family member is looking into a migraines exemption or any other qualifying condition, the first step is a medical evaluation. Our service connects you with a licensed Washington physician via telemedicine. The process is private, efficient, and gets you the paperwork you need if you qualify.

Where to Start

Ready to see if you are eligible for a Washington tint exemption? Visit our booking page to start the process. You can also learn about the conditions that qualify, review common questions in the FAQ, or read more about our history and approach on the About Washington Tint Exemption page.

Washington law gives those with real medical needs a way to stay comfortable and safe on the road. With the right documentation, you can drive legally and avoid unnecessary fines. Always make sure your tint matches your exemption and keep your paperwork ready in your vehicle. If you have questions, check our Blog for updates and practical tips on window tint and exemptions in Washington state.