Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get a Window Tint Medical Exemption in Minnesota

Creator: Minnesota Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-12

Getting your Minnesota 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 · Minnesota Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Quick Overview

Time Required

5-10 minutes to apply

Approval Time

on a variable timeline

Cost

$250 one-time

Why You Need an Exemption in Minnesota

Minnesota's 50% VLT limit under MN Stat §169.71 is one of the strictest in the Midwest. Even moderate 35% tint — legal in many other states — is illegal here. Minnesota has no annual vehicle inspection, but Minnesota State Patrol, Minneapolis PD, St. Paul PD, and local agencies actively enforce tint at traffic stops on I-394, I-35W, I-35E, and other Twin Cities corridors. A physician-certified exemption under subd. 4 makes darker tint fully legal.

Check If You Qualify

Before applying, confirm you have a qualifying medical condition with existing documentation from a primary care physician, ophthalmologist, or specialist. Records from Mayo Clinic, University of Minnesota Health, M Health Fairview, or any licensed Minnesota provider are accepted. Some clinical practices may not offer this paperwork, so availability should be confirmed directly with the treating practice.

conditions that may be relevant include:

Photophobia

Lupus (SLE)

Migraines

Melanoma

Multiple Sclerosis

Glaucoma

Psoriasis

Post-transplant sensitivity

Minnesota's Twin Cities have large Somali and Hmong communities with elevated lupus and autoimmune rates. The University of Minnesota MS Center treats one of the highest regional MS rates in the country.

View conditions that may be relevant

Complete the Online Application

Our application collects your information and existing medical documentation for an independent, appropriately licensed clinician to review against MN Stat §169.71 subd. 4 requirements. You'll provide:

Your name, email, and phone number
State of residence (must be Minnesota)
Your primary medical condition
How the condition affects your sensitivity to light or UV
Your medical documentation from your doctor or specialist

Medical documentation is required

You must have existing records from a PCP, ophthalmologist, or specialist confirming your condition. Records from Mayo Clinic, U of M Health, M Health Fairview, or any licensed provider work. If you don't have documentation yet, obtain it first — most PCPs won't sign exemption paperwork directly, which is why patients come to us.

Independent Clinical Review

After you submit your application, documentation, and payment of $250, an independent, appropriately licensed clinician reviews your medical records against MN Stat §169.71 subd. 4 exemption criteria. independent clinicians provide a professional consultation on your existing documentation — we do not diagnose. If your documentation meets Minnesota's requirements, an independent clinician makes an individual decision and may issue documentation.

Review timing varies by case, document completeness, clinician availability, and any separate agency steps.

Receive Follow-up After Independent Review

Once approved, you'll receive documentation, if independently issued after review via email. This document serves as your legal authorization under MN Stat §169.71 subd. 4 to have darker window tint. Current agency filing requirements should be confirmed.

Keep it in your vehicle at all times

Minnesota State Patrol and local law enforcement can request your exemption documentation at any traffic stop. Keeping any documentation accessible can help you respond, but it does not guarantee avoidance of a citation.

Get Your Windows Tinted

With your exemption in hand, visit a professional tint installer in Minnesota. Show them your exemption certificate so they know you're legally authorized for darker tint below the 50% VLT limit. They'll apply the tint level appropriate for your condition. Ceramic tint is recommended for Minnesota's climate — it provides superior UV blocking year-round and handles the extreme temperature swings from summer to winter.

Important

Some Minnesota tint shops may want to see your exemption certificate before applying tint darker than 50% VLT. Have your documentation ready at the appointment.

What If I Get Pulled Over?

If Minnesota State Patrol, Minneapolis PD, or any local officer stops you for dark window tint, calmly present your medical exemption certificate. Under MN Stat §169.71 subd. 4, the documentation may be considered by a court or agency, but no outcome is guaranteed.

If you receive a petty misdemeanor citation despite having an exemption, present the documentation in court to have it dismissed. This is why keeping the certificate in your vehicle at all times is critical — especially on high-enforcement corridors like I-394, I-35W, I-35E, and MN-62.

Ready to Start?

The application takes about 5 minutes. Get your Minnesota tint exemption today — $250 one-time, Agency requirements may apply.

Related Minnesota Tint Exemption Guides

Explore more about getting your Minnesota window tint medical exemption:

Minnesota Window Tint Medical ExemptionHow the medical exemption works in Minnesota and who qualifies.Minnesota Window Tint LawsLegal VLT limits, reflection rules, and the governing statute.Darkest Legal Tint in MinnesotaHow dark you can legally go with and without an exemption.Tint Exemption CostWhat a Minnesota exemption costs and how it compares to fines.Minnesota Tint Exemption FormWhat the official exemption paperwork requires.Minnesota Tint Tickets & FinesPenalties for illegal tint and how an exemption may affect enforcement.Medical Conditions That May Be RelevantSee every condition that can qualify you for darker tint.Minnesota Exemption FAQAnswers to the most common exemption questions.