Fix-It Tickets for Tint in Arizona: What Drivers Should Know

Arizona is one of the sunniest states in the country. That means most drivers want tinted windows to stay cool and keep the sun out of their eyes. But Arizona law tightly regulates how dark window tint can be, especially on the front side windows. If your tint is too dark, you could get a fix-it ticket or a fine. There is one legal workaround: a medical window tint exemption. Here is what Arizona drivers should know about fix-it tickets for tint, medical exemptions, and how to stay on the right side of the law.

Arizona Window Tint Laws: The Basics

Arizona law sets clear limits for how dark you can tint your windows. The legal limit for front side windows is 33% VLT (Visible Light Transmission). This means at least 33% of light must pass through the front side glass. The back side windows and rear windshield have no darkness limits, so you can go as dark as you want on those. The windshield can only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.

• Front side windows: 33% VLT or lighter
• Back side windows: Any VLT darkness allowed
• Rear window: Any VLT darkness allowed
• Windshield: Non-reflective tint only, above the AS-1 line

Police and vehicle inspectors use a device to check the VLT of your tint. If the reading is lower than 33% on the front sides, you are technically in violation.

Fix-It Tickets for Window Tint in Arizona

If your tint is too dark, you could be stopped by law enforcement and issued a fix-it ticket. In Arizona, most officers issue a citation with instructions to correct the problem. The typical fine for illegal tint is $250. However, a fix-it ticket usually gives you the chance to remove the non-compliant tint and avoid the fine if you show proof of correction.

Arizona takes window tint violations seriously. Officers will check both factory and aftermarket tint. If your tint came with the car but still fails the meter, you can still get ticketed. Always check your car's VLT rating if you are unsure.

How Medical Window Tint Exemptions Work

Arizona law allows drivers with certain medical conditions to apply for a medical window tint exemption. This exemption lets you use tint darker than the legal limit on your front side windows. The duration of an exemption is based on your physician's recommendation. The exemption process is straightforward:

1. Book a remote telemedicine consultation with a licensed Arizona physician. Check if you qualify or book your exemption.
2. Discuss your symptoms and medical history during the virtual visit. Common qualifying conditions include photophobia, lupus, migraines, and others.
3. If approved, you receive signed documentation stating your medical need for dark tint.
4. Keep this documentation in your vehicle at all times. Show it to law enforcement if asked.

The cost is $275, one-time, which includes the medical evaluation and all paperwork. If you do not qualify, you get your money back.

Qualifying Conditions for Medical Tint Exemption

To qualify for an exemption, you must have a legitimate medical reason for reduced sun exposure. Some of the most common conditions include:

• Photophobia (light sensitivity)
• Lupus
• Migraines
• Macular degeneration
• Recent LASIK surgery
• Cataracts
• Vitiligo
• Albinism
• Xeroderma pigmentosum
• Polymorphous light eruption

See the full list of qualifying conditions if you are unsure whether you are eligible.

How to Use Your Medical Exemption

Once you have your signed physician documentation, you must keep the paperwork in your vehicle. If you are pulled over, provide the exemption document along with your registration and insurance. Arizona officers are trained to recognize legitimate exemptions. The paperwork should specify the medical condition and the physician’s recommendation for exemption duration, which could be indefinite or for a set period.

Failing to keep your exemption document in the car leaves you open to a ticket, even if you are medically exempt. If you are ticketed before you obtain an exemption, you may still be able to contest the fix-it ticket by providing your exemption paperwork to the court or law enforcement, depending on local procedure.

If you want more details or have specific questions about the process, see our frequently asked questions page.

What to Do If You Get a Tint Fix-It Ticket

If you get a fix-it ticket for illegal tint and you already have a medical exemption, show the officer your documentation right away. If you do not have an exemption yet, you will need to either remove the tint and provide proof, or get a valid exemption as soon as possible. Sometimes, if you obtain a valid medical exemption quickly, you can present your paperwork to the court and have the ticket dismissed. This depends on the local judge or officer’s discretion.

Keep in mind, you must have the exemption before the ticket was issued for this to work in your favor. If you are planning to get dark tint for a medical reason, handle your exemption before installation. If you have a condition like chronic migraines or photophobia, get the paperwork in order first.

Arizona Medical Tint Exemption Process: Step by Step

1. Read up on Arizona’s medical tint exemption rules and make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities.
2. Gather any supporting medical records you have for your qualifying condition.
3. Book your telemedicine consultation. Schedule here.
4. Complete the appointment. Answer the physician’s questions honestly and thoroughly.
5. If approved, download or receive your signed documentation.
6. Keep the paperwork in your glove box at all times.

This process keeps you protected and on the right side of Arizona law.

Key Takeaways for Arizona Drivers

• 33% VLT is the legal limit for front side windows. Back sides and rear have no limit.
• Illegal tint can get you a fix-it ticket and a $250 fine.
• Arizona allows medical exemptions with proper documentation. Duration is set by your physician.
• Keep your exemption paperwork in the car at all times.
• If you qualify for an exemption, get it before installing dark tint.
• Common qualifying conditions include photophobia, lupus, migraines, and more.
• See frequently asked questions for more details.

Arizona drivers with medical needs do not have to risk fines or tickets. The exemption process is straightforward and protects your right to a comfortable, safe driving experience. If you think you might qualify, book a consultation and get the paperwork squared away before you run into trouble on the road.

Want to know more about specific medical conditions? See our guides on migraines, lupus, photophobia, and the full list of qualifying conditions. For a broader look at Arizona tint law and medical exemptions, check out our blog.