Join Our Waitlist For Iowa
Medical Window Tint Exemption
Sorry, We’re Not Available in Iowa right now
However, you can easily join our waitlist to be notified when booking appointments in your state become available.
Join our waitlist to be notified once we start accepting appointments in Iowa.
See What Our Customers Are Saying!
in DMV Window Tint Exemption evaluation.
Common Conditions That Qualify for
Medical Tint Exemption
Autoimmune Disorders
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Discoid and Cutaneous Lupus
- Dermatomyositis (Classic/Juvenile)
- Scleroderma and Mixed Connective
- Other Photosensitive Autoimmune
Skin Disorders
- Total or Facial Vitiligo
- Chronic Actinic Dermatitis
- Photosensitive Eczema Types
- Solar Urticaria (Sun Allergy)
- Polymorphous Light Eruption
Eye Conditions
- Photophobia (Light Sensitivity)
- Cataracts and Glaucoma
- Macular Degeneration Issues
- Retinitis Pigmentosa Types
- Post-Surgery Light Sensitivity
Neurological Pain
- Chronic Migraines (Light-Triggered)
- Migraine-Associated Photophobia
- Cluster Headaches with Aura
- Post-Concussion Light Sensitivity
- Neurological Light Intolerance
Genetic Conditions
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP Types)
- Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA)
- Porphyria / Erythropoietic Proto
- Cockayne Syndrome Variants
- Bloom Syndrome and Related
Drug Photosensitivity
- Tetracycline Antibiotics (Doxy)
- Chemotherapy Medications
- Retinoids Like Isotretinoin
- NSAIDs and Diuretics
- Psychiatric/Cardiac Medications
Iowa: Everything You Need to Know
Iowa Window Tint Exemption Laws
Iowa's window tinting laws are governed under Iowa Code § 321.438 (Windshields and windows) and Iowa Administrative Code Rule 761.450.7 (Front windshields, windows or sidewings), administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Iowa previously had a medical exemption program but permanently closed it on July 4, 2012. No new exemptions have been or can be issued since that date.
- Iowa window tint laws were originally enacted in 1983 under Iowa Code § 321.438.
- A medical exemption program (DOT Form 432020) existed but was permanently closed on July 4, 2012.
- No new medical exemptions can be granted under current Iowa law.
- Only pre-July 4, 2012 exemptions remain valid, provided the original Form 432020 is carried in the vehicle.
- Violations are subject to a scheduled fine under Iowa Code § 321.438.
Policy Timeline
1983 – Original Tint Law Enacted
- Iowa codifies window tint restrictions under Iowa Code § 321.438, establishing a 70% VLT minimum for the windshield and front side windows. No medical exemption provision is included in the original statute.
Late 1990s – Light-Sensitive Disorder Permit Introduced
- Iowa introduces DOT Form 432020, a light-sensitive disorder permit allowing patients with qualifying conditions to maintain front window tint down to 35% VLT. A signed physician statement was required to obtain the permit.
2012 – Medical Exemption Program Closed
- Effective July 4, 2012, Iowa permanently closes the medical exemption program. No new Form 432020 applications are accepted. Only exemptions issued before this date remain valid and cannot be renewed.
2018 – Senate Bill to Lower VLT Fails to Advance
- The Iowa Senate passes a bill to lower the required front window VLT from 70% to 35%, which would benefit photosensitive patients. The bill does not advance through the full legislature and does not become law.
Present Day – No New Exemptions Available
- Iowa remains closed to new medical window tint exemptions. Iowa Code § 321.438 and IAC Rule 761.450.7 contain no active pathway for new physician certifications.
Legal Tint Limits
Iowa law sets specific tint limits under Iowa Code § 321.438 and IAC Rule 761.450.7. Because no active medical exemption program exists for new applicants, these limits apply to all drivers without exception.
Standard Iowa Tint Limits:
- Windshield: Must maintain at least 70% VLT. Non-reflective tint only. No red, amber, or yellow tint permitted.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% VLT. This applies to the windows immediately to the left and right of the driver.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness level is permitted for both passenger cars and multipurpose vehicles.
- Rear Window: Any darkness level is permitted for both passenger cars and multipurpose vehicles.
- Reflectivity: Excessive reflectiveness is not permitted on front side windows. Iowa law does not specify a precise reflectivity percentage.
Why Do People Choose TintedMD?
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Flexible Payment Options
Fast Same-Day Processing
Licensed State Physicians Only
HIPAA Compliant & Secure
State-Approved Documentation
Don’t just take our word for it!
or connect with our licensed medical professionals today.
Benefits of Having Medical Tint Exemption
Legal Protection
Priority Access
UV Protection
All Windows Covered
FAQs
Why isn’t TintedMD available in Iowa?
Iowa permanently closed its medical window tint exemption program on July 4, 2012. No new applications for DOT Form 432020 are accepted under current Iowa Code § 321.438. Because no active legal pathway exists for new physician certifications, TintedMD cannot currently provide services in the state.
Can I drive with darker tint in Iowa if I have a medical condition?
No, unless you hold a valid pre-July 4, 2012 DOT Form 432020 that was issued for your specific vehicle. For anyone diagnosed after that date, no exemption pathway exists. All new drivers must comply with the standard 70% VLT minimum on the windshield and front side windows.
Is Iowa likely to reinstate a medical window tint exemption program?
Recent legislative activity, including a 2018 Senate bill to lower front window VLT requirements, shows ongoing interest in reforming Iowa's tint laws. However, no bill specifically reinstating the medical exemption program has passed to date. TintedMD is actively monitoring the Iowa General Assembly and will notify waitlist members the moment that changes.
What happens if I get pulled over for dark tint in Iowa?
Driving with non-compliant window tint on front windows in Iowa is a violation of Iowa Code § 321.438, subject to a scheduled fine. Law enforcement uses VLT meters to measure compliance at traffic stops.
Are there any legal alternatives for UV protection in Iowa without an exemption?
Yes. High-grade ceramic window film can be installed at Iowa's legal tint limits and still block up to 99% of harmful UV rays. While this does not allow for darker than permitted tint on front windows, it provides meaningful protection for photosensitive patients without risking a violation. Iowa already permits any darkness level on rear and back side windows for all vehicle types, offering significant coverage without any exemption required.
Explore Iowa Hotspots
When You Get Your Medical Tint Exemption
Des Moines
Iowa's capital and largest city offers a vibrant downtown, the nationally recognized Des Moines Art Center, a thriving food and brewery scene, and beautiful river trails along the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. With a growing cultural identity and welcoming Midwestern charm, Des Moines consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the country.
Iowa City
Home to the University of Iowa, Iowa City is a lively college town with a rich literary heritage, a walkable downtown filled with independent shops and restaurants, and a passionate arts community. Designated a UNESCO City of Literature, it draws visitors year round with its unique blend of academic energy and small city warmth.