Can You Get A Prescription For Window Tint In California?
Living in California means having to deal with the constant heat and bright sun. One way to alleviate the harsh effects of the sun is by installing window tint in your car. However, many people are unsure if they can legally tint their windows and if they need a prescription to do so. In this article, we will explore the rules and regulations surrounding window tint in California and answer the question: can you get a prescription for window tint in California?
What is Window Tint?
Window tint is a thin film that is applied to the inside of your car's windows. The film is designed to reduce the amount of sunlight and heat that enters your car, making it a more comfortable environment to be in. Window tint can also help protect the interior of your car from fading and damage caused by UV rays.
What are the Laws Regarding Window Tint in California?
California has strict laws regarding window tint. The darkness of the tint is measured by the percentage of visible light that passes through the film. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint. The following are the legal limits for window tint in California:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Front side windows: Must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through.
- Back side windows: Any darkness of tint is allowed if the vehicle has side mirrors that provide at least 200 feet of visibility from behind.
- Rear window: Any darkness of tint is allowed if the vehicle has side mirrors that provide at least 200 feet of visibility from behind.
It is important to note that reflective tint is not allowed on any windows.
Do You Need a Prescription for Window Tint in California?
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need a prescription to have window tint installed on your car in California. However, if you have a medical condition that requires you to limit your exposure to sunlight, you may be eligible for an exemption from the window tint laws. To obtain an exemption, you must have a licensed physician fill out a Medical Exemption Certificate and submit it to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How Do You Obtain a Medical Exemption for Window Tint?
To obtain a medical exemption for window tint, you must follow these steps:
- Visit a licensed physician and obtain a diagnosis for a medical condition that requires you to limit your exposure to sunlight.
- Have the physician fill out a Medical Exemption Certificate, which can be found on the DMV's website.
- Submit the completed certificate to the DMV.
- Once approved, take the certificate to a licensed installer to have the window tint installed on your car.
What Medical Conditions Qualify for a Window Tint Exemption?
The following medical conditions may qualify for a window tint exemption:
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum
- Albinism
- Photosensitivity
- Severe Melasma
- Porphyria
What Happens if You Get Pulled Over with Illegal Window Tint?
If you are pulled over with illegal window tint, you may be issued a fix-it ticket. This ticket requires you to correct the violation within a certain amount of time and have the vehicle inspected by a law enforcement agency. If you fail to correct the violation, you may be subject to fines and penalties.
The Bottom Line
Window tint can be a great way to make your car more comfortable and protect it from the sun's harmful rays. However, it is important to follow the laws and regulations surrounding window tint in California. While you do not need a prescription to have window tint installed on your car, you may be eligible for a medical exemption if you have a qualifying medical condition. If you are unsure about the legality of your window tint, consult with a licensed installer or law enforcement agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal limit for window tint in California?
The legal limit for window tint in California varies by window. The front side windows must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through, while the back side windows and rear window can be any darkness if the vehicle has side mirrors that provide at least 200 feet of visibility from behind.
Do I need a prescription for window tint in California?
No, you do not need a prescription to have window tint installed on your car in California. However, if you have a medical condition that requires you to limit your exposure to sunlight, you may be eligible for a medical exemption from the window tint laws.
What medical conditions qualify for a window tint exemption?
The following medical conditions may qualify for a window tint exemption in California: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Xeroderma Pigmentosum, Albinism, Photosensitivity, Severe Melasma, and Porphyria.
What happens if I get pulled over with illegal window tint?
If you are pulled over with illegal window tint in California, you may be issued a fix-it ticket. This ticket requires you to correct the violation within a certain amount of time and have the vehicle inspected by a law enforcement agency. If you fail to correct the violation, you may be subject to fines and penalties.
Can I have reflective tint on my windows?
No, reflective tint is not allowed on any windows in California.
Do I need to have my window tint inspected?
No, window tint in California does not need to be inspected. However, law enforcement officers may inspect your window tint during a traffic stop to ensure that it is legal.