How to get a window tint medical exemption in Virginia
Virginia grants an exemption from its tint limits on a qualifying medical certification. The paperwork is Application for medical authorization for sun-shading (form MED 20), handled by Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. No fee is published.
| What | Virginia |
|---|---|
| Form | MED 20 — Application for medical authorization for sun-shading |
| Who certifies | A physician; A physician assistant; A nurse practitioner; An ophthalmologist; An optometrist. |
| Fee | None published |
| Valid for | As long as the person has the condition, or until the vehicle is sold — the authorisation follows the person, not the vehicle |
| Keep in vehicle | Yes |
| What it covers | Front side windows down to 35% light transmission, and the windshield only from the upper 5 inches to the AS-1 line at 70%. The authorisation does not open the windshield to film generally. |
| Submit to | Any DMV customer service centre, or by mail to DMV |
The steps
- 1
Get the authorisation before any film goes on. Virginia DMV says to obtain the medical authorisation first — installing the tint and applying afterwards is the common mistake.
- 2
Check the vehicle qualifies: it must have both left and right outside mirrors.
- 3
Have a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, ophthalmologist or optometrist complete the certification on form MED 20, stating that on examination vehicle sun-shading is necessary for the patient's health.
- 4
Return the completed MED 20 to a DMV customer service centre or by mail.
- 5
Keep the authorisation with the vehicle. It stays valid while the person has the condition, or until the vehicle is sold — it is tied to the person, so it moves with them.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a window tint medical exemption in Virginia?
Get the authorisation before any film goes on. Virginia DMV says to obtain the medical authorisation first — installing the tint and applying afterwards is the common mistake. Check the vehicle qualifies: it must have both left and right outside mirrors. Have a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, ophthalmologist or optometrist complete the certification on form MED 20, stating that on examination vehicle sun-shading is necessary for the patient's health. Return the completed MED 20 to a DMV customer service centre or by mail. Keep the authorisation with the vehicle. It stays valid while the person has the condition, or until the vehicle is sold — it is tied to the person, so it moves with them.
What form do I need for a tint exemption in Virginia?
Application for medical authorization for sun-shading, form MED 20, from Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
Who can sign a tint exemption in Virginia?
A physician; A physician assistant; A nurse practitioner; An ophthalmologist; An optometrist.
What medical conditions qualify for tint in Virginia?
Virginia does not publish a list of named conditions. The test is whether a qualifying provider certifies that you require shielding from the sun.
How long does a Virginia tint exemption last?
As long as the person has the condition, or until the vehicle is sold — the authorisation follows the person, not the vehicle. Keep it in the vehicle.
Does the exemption let me tint the windshield in Virginia?
Front side windows down to 35% light transmission, and the windshield only from the upper 5 inches to the AS-1 line at 70%. The authorisation does not open the windshield to film generally.
Sources
- Va. Code 46.2-1053 (Virginia Law) (official)
- Virginia DMV form MED 20 (official)
- Virginia DMV - Sun-shading medical authorization (official)
Reference only, not legal or medical advice. Forms and fees change — confirm against the official source above before you file, and get the form from the agency rather than a third-party form site.