What a Doctor's Note Must Include for a Pennsylvania Tint Exemption

If you live in Pennsylvania and need darker window tint for medical reasons, you are not alone. The state does allow a medical window tint exemption for drivers with qualifying conditions, but you must have a valid doctor’s note to stay legal on the road. Understanding exactly what this documentation needs to include will keep you protected from unnecessary fines and hassles. Here’s what you need to know about the doctor’s note and the entire exemption process in Pennsylvania.

Why You Need a Medical Tint Exemption in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law sets strict limits on window tint:

• Front side windows: 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) required
• Back side windows: 70% VLT required
• Rear window: 70% VLT required
• Windshield: Non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line

These limits are higher than many states, so most aftermarket tints will be illegal for front, rear, and back side windows without a medical exemption. The typical fine for illegal tint in Pennsylvania is $110, and you may be required to remove the tint or face further penalties.

Some medical conditions make you especially sensitive to sunlight or require extra UV protection. If you have a qualifying diagnosis, you may be eligible for a tint exemption that lets you go darker than 70% VLT. To use this exemption, you must keep valid medical documentation in your vehicle at all times.

What a Pennsylvania Doctor’s Note Must Include

Pennsylvania does not accept any casual note scribbled by your doctor. Law enforcement, DOT, and inspection stations need specific information to recognize a legal exemption. Here’s what the note must have:

• Patient’s Full Name: Your legal name as it appears on your license and registration.
• Detailed Diagnosis or Qualifying Condition: The condition that requires medical tint. Examples include photophobia, lupus, migraines, albinism, and more. See the full list of qualifying conditions.
• Medical Justification: The note should state that excess sunlight exposure may worsen your condition or endanger your health.
• Recommended Tint Level: The specific level of tint or VLT percentage needed, or a statement that "medical necessity requires darker than state law permits."
• Exemption Duration: How long the exemption is valid, as determined by your physician. Pennsylvania allows the doctor to recommend the length (could be permanent or for a set number of years).
• Physician’s Full Name, License Number, and Contact Information: Must be a licensed medical doctor with signature and date. Telemedicine consultations are valid if the doctor is licensed and follows state protocols.

It is your responsibility to keep this documentation in your vehicle. If pulled over, you will need to show the note to law enforcement. Without it, you risk the standard $110 fine and orders to remove the tint.

Qualifying Medical Conditions for Tint Exemption

Pennsylvania recognizes a range of medical reasons that warrant darker window tint. These include, but are not limited to:

• Photophobia (light sensitivity)
• Lupus
• Migraines
• Albinism
• Macular degeneration
• Cataracts
• Melanoma and certain other skin disorders
• Porphyria, erythropoietic protoporphyria, solar urticaria, and more

For a comprehensive list, visit All qualifying conditions. If you’re not sure whether your diagnosis meets criteria, you can check with a Pennsylvania-licensed medical provider through our service.

Getting Your Medical Tint Exemption: Step-by-Step

1. Book Your Evaluation: Schedule a remote telemedicine consultation with a Pennsylvania-licensed physician. Start here: Check if you qualify and book your exemption.
2. Consult with the Doctor: Discuss your medical history, symptoms, and need for window tint. The physician will evaluate your eligibility for a tint exemption. Examples of what you might discuss: sunlight-induced migraines, light-triggered lupus flare-ups, or post-lasik surgery sensitivity.
3. Receive Documentation: If approved, you get a signed physician’s note with all required details. If you do not qualify, your $250 consultation fee is refunded.
4. Install Legal Tint: Bring your exemption document to your tint installer. They will apply film that matches your medical needs, even if it is lower than 70% VLT.
5. Keep the Note in Your Car: Always carry your medical exemption letter in the vehicle, ready to present if stopped by police.

Our process is remote, secure, and meets Pennsylvania state requirements. The exemption is valid for as long as your doctor recommends, which could be for a set period or indefinitely, depending on your condition.

Tips for Staying Legal with Your Exemption

• Renew as Needed: If your doctor sets an expiration date, be sure to renew your consultation before that date passes.
• Documentation Must Be On Hand: Law enforcement and inspection stations will not accept copies at home or on your phone. Carry the physical note in your vehicle at all times.
• Use a Trusted Tint Shop: Not all installers understand medical exemptions. Show your paperwork before installation. They must document that your vehicle is exempt from the 70% VLT rule.
• Know the Windshield Rules: Even with a medical exemption, you cannot add reflective or dark tint below the AS-1 line on the windshield.
• Check for Updates: Pennsylvania rules can change. Review the Frequently asked questions or blog for the latest updates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Handwritten or incomplete doctor notes. The state requires clear, typed (or legibly printed) documentation with all details included.
• Missing physician license or contact information. A note without this is not valid and may result in fines.
• Failing to update or renew the exemption if your doctor sets a specific expiration date.
• Assuming your exemption is valid in other states. While many states honor medical tint exemptions, not all do. Double-check before traveling.
• Not carrying your exemption note in the vehicle. Digital copies or excuses will not prevent a ticket.

How Our Service Works for Pennsylvania Drivers

We connect you with a Pennsylvania-licensed physician for a telemedicine evaluation. The cost is $250, one-time. If you qualify, you receive signed exemption documents that meet all state requirements. If you do not qualify, you get your money back. We regularly help applicants with photophobia, migraines, lupus, lasik surgery, and other conditions recognized by Pennsylvania law.

Our team has helped hundreds of Pennsylvanians stay legal while getting relief from medical sunlight sensitivity. For more about our mission and experience, visit About Pennsylvania Tint Exemption.

Resources for Pennsylvania Tint Exemption Applicants

• Check if you qualify / book your exemption
• All qualifying conditions
• Frequently asked questions
• Blog
• About Pennsylvania Tint Exemption

If you have questions about your eligibility or what documentation you need, start with the Frequently asked questions or book your consultation today.