Can You Obtain a Prescription for Tinted Windows?

Not only do tinted windows make cars or buildings look aesthetically appealing, but they also keep the sun rays out, cut glare, and create a sense of privacy. For some users, tinted windows can be a health barrier and sometimes even a special order, but for some people, they are medically necessary. 

For example, people with conditions imply that they need tinted windows because they are sun-sensitive. In such cases, tinted windows prescription becomes a legitimate necessity.

This blog will discuss when and how to get a prescription for tinted windows and the process involved in getting one. So, let’s get started!

Why Do Some People Need Medical Tint Prescriptions?

Tinted windows aren’t just a luxury; they’re crucial to some people with medical conditions. They help to give comfort and safety, making daily life easier.

Here are some medical conditions that may require the individual to obtain tinted windows:

Light Sensitivity Discomfort (Photophobia)

We can explain this simply: a person who has Photophobia becomes extremely sensitive to light. It is highly likely associated with migraine, lupus, or other neurologic diseases. 

Light becomes quite intolerable or even painful for people suffering from this particular condition; hence, tinted windows can help reduce sunlight.

Skin problems

Some functionally intense skin diseases, like “xeroderma pigmentosum ” (XP), result in oversensitive skin to UV exposure. 

For these people, even a little time in the sun can destroy the skin or even increase the risk of skin cancer. Tinted windows, which block harmful UV protection, are the solution.

Eye Disorders

People with diseases such as macular degeneration, chronic dry eye, or cataracts tend to become sensitive to light.

Tinted windows lessen the amount of sunlight that causes discomfort, making activities such as driving or sitting next to a window bearable.

How to Obtain a Prescription for Tinted Windows

obtain window tinted

In the case where you feel the need for tinted windows for medical purposes, follow these procedures below to acquire a prescription: 

Contact a Medical Professional 

The first course of action one needs to take is to visit a doctor, optometrist, or dermatologist who is duly qualified with the required medical degrees to provide prescriptions. You need to narrate the symptoms you have developed and how exposure to light is a problem for you.

State your case explicitly as to what makes you think using tinted windows could be more useful. The doctor in question will carefully examine your condition and decide if it is relevant to prescribe anything. 

Get Medical Records 

Doctors always recommend prescriptions after approval. As a rule, this document contains the following information: 

  • You are given a medical diagnosis (such as sensitivity to light, skin, or eye problems). 
  • Medical recommendation to use tinted windows. 
  • Estimated degree of tint suitable to your medical condition. 
  • Keep this document safe as it certifies that you are a person who needs tinted windows for medical reasons.
  • Submit Your Prescription to Relevant Authorities

For instance, when obtaining a vehicle window tinting service, you may need to submit the medical certification to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or another relevant agency. In Georgia, you can read more about medical exemptions for window tinting on the state’s official government website

In some states, you’ll receive a permit or an exemption that allows you to have your windows tinted beyond the normally allowed limits.

Legal Aspects Related To Putting Tints On Car Windows

The installation of car window tints is governed by certain laws and regulations so as to enhance road and general safety. The laws governing window tints have regulations on how dark the window can be, and these regulations differ greatly from one state or country to the next. 

Here is what needs to be noted:

Which Percentage Of The Window Should Be Covered With Tint (VLT)

VLT, which means Visible Light Transmission, is the light that transmits through the tinted glass; a percentage of transmission that is lower than less percentage would mean darker windows. 

Though the restrictions of regular window tinting may state the minimum VLT percentage to be 35% and above, in some cases, medical lettering provides exceptions to this minimum standard. These exceptions must be checked in the local jurisdictions.

Requirements for Documentation

To avoid the danger of getting fined, you should ensure that you have the medical letter or approval in your vehicle. This is especially vital when being questioned by law enforcement officers about the legality of your window tints.

Limitations of Medical Prescriptions

A medical prescription may have a restriction whereby the degree of tint that a patient can use may be restricted.

For instance, a car’s windshield may not be able to be tinted as it has to meet a certain level of transparency for safety reasons.

Very few prescriptions for darker window tinting are issued, as they require legitimate medical justification under tint law M.S.S. 169.71 S4 (b)(2) to prevent illegal tinting citations.

Comparison of Tinting Laws with and Without Medical Prescriptions

Aspect

Standard Tinting

With Medical Prescription

VLT Percentage

35% or higher

Can go as low as 20% or lower

Applicable Areas

Side and rear windows

Side, rear, and sometimes windshields

Documentation Required

No

Yes (medical prescription required)

Enforcement by Authorities

Strict

Flexible with valid documentation

To ensure accuracy, it’s essential to check the specific laws in the state of interest as there can be significant variations in how tint laws are structured and enforced across the United States. Each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent will have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding both standard tinting regulations and medical exemptions.

Benefits of Tinted Windows for Medical Needs

Prevention of Harmful UV Radiation

Exposure Tinted windows are known to block 99% of the harmful effects of UV rays, which might, in turn, result in skin issues or other medical concerns. This is vital for patients suffering from XP or lupus conditions.

Improved Comfort

People who are light averse or have eye problems will be most comfortable with these, as they help reduce glare while controlling the level of sunlight entering an area.

More Privacy

Tinted windows also help to prevent other people from seeing inside the windows, which is ideal for people who do not want to be in direct sunlight in public places.

Common Myths About Medical Prescriptions for Tinted Windows

Medical Tinting Has No Limitations

Those who have been granted a legal document may still face restrictions on how dark they can go. These rules are in place to ensure that the medical requirement isn’t at odds with safety on the roads.

All Prescriptions Are The Same

Different states and countries have different regulations regarding tinted windows, including the use of various types of tint such as dyed, metalized, hybrid, carbon, and ceramic films. The prescription issued in one area for medical exemptions may not be valid in another area, making it essential to consider local laws when traveling.

Conclusion

For people suffering from specific ailments, tinted car windows are no longer a luxury but a daily requirement. We have discussed when doctors can prescribe tinted car windows that are indeed medically required to improve comfort and health. 

It is best always to clarify everything with the concerned authorities in your jurisdiction to avoid unpleasant surprises as to what is allowed and what action is to be taken.

Protecting your health and ensuring legality are the same thing, so go to the doctor and do what it takes to protect and make your surroundings more comfortable and safe!