Autocare

How to Get Tint Exemption in CA: Step-by-Step Guide for California Drivers

Understand California’s Medical Tint Waiver Process and Learn How to Apply with Confidence

California has some of the strictest window tinting laws in the United States, but did you know you can legally get darker window tint through an exemption program? If you’re wondering how to get tint exemption in CA, you’re in the right place. 

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining legal permission for darker window tinting in California.

Understanding California Window Tint Laws

Before diving into how to get tint exemption in CA, it’s important to understand the standard window tinting laws California enforces. Under California Vehicle Code Section 26708, the state has specific requirements for window tint darkness:

Standard California Tint Laws:

rogue auto salon- how long window tint last
  • Front side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in
  • Back side windows: Any darkness is allowed
  • Rear window: Any darkness is allowed (if vehicle has side mirrors)
  • Windshield: Only tinting allowed on the top 4 inches

The 70% light transmission rule for front windows is where most people run into trouble. Many drivers prefer darker tinting for privacy, UV protection, or medical reasons, which is where tint exemptions become valuable.

Who Qualifies for Tint Exemption in California

California’s window tint exemption program primarily serves two groups:

Medical Exemptions

The most common way to get a tint exemption involves medical necessity. California recognizes that certain medical conditions require protection from sunlight and UV rays that standard tinting cannot provide.

Law Enforcement and Emergency Vehicles

Police vehicles, emergency response vehicles, and certain government vehicles automatically qualify for tint exemptions under California law.

Medical Conditions That Qualify for Exemptions

When learning how to get tint exemption in CA for medical reasons, you’ll need to have one of the qualifying conditions. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recognizes several medical conditions that warrant window tint exemptions:

Qualifying Medical Conditions:

  • Lupus: An autoimmune disease that makes skin extremely sensitive to sunlight
  • Albinism: A genetic condition resulting in little to no melanin production
  • Xeroderma Pigmentosum: A rare genetic disorder causing extreme sensitivity to UV radiation
  • Severe photosensitivity: Due to medications or other medical conditions
  • Photophobia: Extreme sensitivity to light
  • Skin cancer: Including melanoma and other UV-related skin conditions
  • Eye conditions: Such as certain types of cataracts or retinal disorders

Your condition must be diagnosed and documented by a licensed physician who can attest that darker window tinting is medically necessary for your health and safety.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Tint Exemption

Understanding how to get tint exemption in CA involves following a specific process with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), not the DMV, as many people assume.

Step 1: Get Medical Documentation

Contact your physician to discuss your condition and determine if a window tint exemption is necessary. Your doctor must:

  • Confirm your qualifying medical condition
  • State that window tinting darker than legal limits is medically necessary
  • Provide detailed medical documentation on official letterhead
  • Include their medical license number and contact information

Step 2: Complete CHP Form 23

Download and complete California Highway Patrol Form 23 (Application for Window Tinting Medical Exemption). This form requires:

  • Personal information (name, address, driver’s license number)
  • Vehicle information (make, model, year, VIN, license plate)
  • Medical condition details
  • Physician’s information and signature

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Collect all required paperwork:

  • Completed CHP Form 23
  • Physician’s letter on official letterhead
  • Copy of your driver’s license
  • Copy of vehicle registration
  • Medical records supporting your condition (if requested)

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Mail your complete application packet to:

California Highway Patrol

Vehicle Inspection Program

P.O. Box 942898

Sacramento, CA 94298-0001

You can also submit applications in person at certain CHP offices, though mail submission is typically preferred.

How to get tint exemption in CA

Required Documents and Forms

Obtaining a window tint exemption successfully requires proper documentation. Here’s what you need when applying for how to get tint exemption in CA:

Essential Documents:

  1. CHP Form 23: The official application form
  2. Physician’s Letter: Must be on official medical letterhead
  3. Driver’s License Copy: Current and valid California license
  4. Vehicle Registration: Proof of vehicle ownership or registration
  5. Medical Records: Additional documentation if requested by CHP

Physician Letter Requirements:

Your doctor’s letter is crucial for approval. It must include:

  • Your full name and date of birth
  • Specific medical condition diagnosis
  • Explanation of how sunlight affects your condition
  • Statement that window tinting darker than legal limits is medically necessary
  • Doctor’s full name, medical license number, and signature
  • Date of the letter (should be recent)

Application Timeline and Fees

When planning how to get tint exemption in CA, consider the timeline and costs involved:

Processing Time:

  • Standard processing: 4-6 weeks from receipt
  • Rush processing: Not typically available
  • Incomplete applications: May take 8-10 weeks or require resubmission

Fees:

Currently, California does not charge a fee for medical window tint exemptions. However, you may incur costs for:

  • Medical consultation and documentation
  • Copying and mailing documents
  • Window tinting installation after approval

Application Status:

Unfortunately, CHP doesn’t provide online tracking for exemption applications. If you haven’t heard back within 6-8 weeks, you can contact them directly for status updates.

Law Enforcement Vehicle Exemptions

Window tinting laws California include automatic exemptions for certain vehicles:

Qualifying Vehicles:

  • Police patrol cars
  • Sheriff’s department vehicles
  • Highway Patrol vehicles
  • Federal law enforcement vehicles
  • Emergency response vehicles
  • Certain government fleet vehicles

These exemptions don’t require the same application process as medical exemptions. The vehicle’s official status automatically qualifies it for darker window tint.

What to Do After Getting Your Exemption

Technician peeling off film from a car window, illustrating the process and cost to remove car window tint

Once you receive approval for your window tint exemption, follow these important steps:

  1. Keep Documentation Handy

Always carry your exemption certificate in your vehicle. Law enforcement officers need to verify your legal right to have darker tinting.

  1. Choose a Reputable Tinting Shop

Select a window tinting installer familiar with California exemptions. They should:

  • Understand exemption requirements
  • Install tint within approved specifications
  • Provide proper documentation of tint levels
  • Use high-quality materials that meet legal standards

Luckily, RogueAutoSalon in San Jose has a certified tinting academy and tinting showroom! 

  1. Understand Your Limits

Even with an exemption, there are limits:

  • Exemptions typically allow up to 70% tint on front windows (instead of the standard requirement)
  • Some exemptions may allow darker levels depending on medical necessity
  • Windshield tinting is still restricted to the top 4 inches in most cases
  1. Renewal Requirements

Medical exemptions typically require renewal every few years. Keep track of your expiration date and begin the renewal process early.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make errors when learning how to get tint exemption in CA. Avoid these common mistakes:

Documentation Errors:

  • Using generic medical letters without specific condition details
  • Submitting incomplete CHP Form 23
  • Forgetting to include vehicle registration copies
  • Using outdated medical documentation

Application Mistakes:

  • Applying to the DMV instead of CHP
  • Installing window tint before receiving approval
  • Not keeping the exemption certificates in the vehicle
  • Assuming all medical conditions automatically qualify

Post-Approval Issues:

  • Installing tint darker than the exemption allows
  • Not renewing expired exemptions
  • Failing to inform the new vehicle registration of the exemption status

Final Thoughts: How To Get Tint Exemption In CA

Understanding how to get tint exemption in CA opens up legal options for drivers who need darker window tint for medical or professional reasons. The process requires patience, proper documentation, and attention to detail, but the result is legal protection and peace of mind. 

Whether you’re dealing with a medical condition that requires UV protection or you’re in law enforcement, California’s exemption program provides a pathway to legal window tinting that exceeds standard limits.

Ready to apply for your window tint exemption? Start by consulting with your physician about your medical needs and gathering the necessary documentation. The sooner you begin the process, the sooner you’ll have legal protection and the darkest window tinting you need for your health and comfort.

Image of a tinted car window demonstrating reduced visibility—used to highlight key “reasons not to tint car windows,” including safety and clarity concerns.