Massachusetts Tint Exemption
Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get a Window Tint Medical Exemption in Massachusetts

Getting your Massachusetts tint exemption is simpler than most people think. This guide walks you through the entire process — from application to approval — in clear, step-by-step detail.

Updated April 2026 · Massachusetts Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Quick Overview

Time Required

5-10 minutes to apply

Approval Time

Within 24 hours

Cost

$225 one-time

Why Massachusetts Drivers Need This

Massachusetts enforces tint laws at traffic stops and the mandatory annual safety inspection. Without an exemption, dark tint causes an inspection failure — you cannot renew your registration until the tint is removed. A medical exemption under MGL c.90 §9D protects you at both.

1

Check If You Qualify

Before applying, confirm you have a qualifying medical condition with existing documentation from a primary care physician or specialist. Records from any Massachusetts provider are accepted — Mass General, Brigham & Women's, Dana-Farber, Beth Israel Deaconess, or your local PCP. Most PCPs won't sign tint exemption paperwork directly — that's the gap our service fills.

Common qualifying conditions include:

Photophobia
Lupus (SLE)
Migraines
Melanoma
Multiple Sclerosis
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Rosacea
View all qualifying conditions
2

Complete the Online Application

Our application collects your information and existing medical documentation for our physician to review against MGL c.90 §9D requirements. You'll provide:

  • Your name, email, and phone number
  • Massachusetts residence confirmation
  • Your primary medical condition
  • How the condition affects your sensitivity to light or UV
  • Your medical documentation from your PCP, ophthalmologist, or specialist

Medical documentation is required

You must have existing records from a provider confirming your condition. Records from Mass General, Brigham & Women's, Dana-Farber, Beth Israel, or any Massachusetts provider are accepted. If you don't have documentation yet, obtain it from your doctor first.

3

Physician Reviews Your Documentation

After you submit your application, documentation, and payment of $225, a licensed Massachusetts physician reviews your medical records against the exemption criteria under MGL c.90 §9D. Our physicians provide a professional consultation on your existing documentation — we do not diagnose. If your documentation meets state requirements, the physician signs and submits your exemption paperwork on your behalf.

Most reviews are completed within 24 hours. Many exemptions are processed the same day.

4

Receive Your Exemption Certificate

Once the physician approves your application, you'll receive your official Massachusetts window tint medical exemption certificate via email. This document serves as your legal authorization to have darker window tint under MGL c.90 §9D.

Dual protection: traffic stops + annual inspection

Keep a copy in your vehicle at all times. Present it to officers during traffic stops and to the inspection technician during your annual safety inspection. Your exemption ensures you pass the tint portion of the inspection.

5

Get Your Windows Tinted

With your exemption in hand, take your vehicle to a professional Massachusetts tint installer. Show them your exemption certificate so they know you're legally authorized for darker tint. Ceramic tint is recommended — it blocks up to 99% of UV rays while maintaining a lighter visual appearance.

Important for Massachusetts drivers

Many Massachusetts tint shops require seeing your exemption documentation before applying tint darker than 35% VLT. Have your certificate ready. Reminder: red, amber, and yellow tints are prohibited regardless of exemption status.

What If I Get Pulled Over?

If Massachusetts State Police, Boston PD, or any local department stops you for dark window tint, calmly present your medical exemption certificate. Under MGL c.90 §9D, your exemption is a valid legal defense against tint violation charges.

If you receive a citation despite having an exemption, present the documentation at your clerk magistrate hearing to have the ticket dismissed. This is common on high-enforcement corridors like I-93, I-90, and Route 128 where officers may not immediately verify exemption status.

Ready to Start?

5 minutes online. No RMV visit. Pass your next annual inspection with confidence.

Get Your Massachusetts Tint Exemption

Starting at $225· Doctor Approved