If you’re a New York resident with a medical condition that requires protection from sunlight, you may have already looked into installing darker window tint on your vehicle. But in a state with some of the strictest window tint laws in the U.S., doing this legally requires more than just a trip to the tint shop.
New York State law allows for darker tint—but only if you have an approved medical exemption. The process for obtaining this exemption starts with a specific form: the MV-80W.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what the MV-80W form is, who needs it, how to get it completed, and why using a service like ForeverTint can help you avoid the complexity of doing it alone.
What is the MV-80W form in New York?
The MV-80W is the official medical exemption form required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for individuals requesting permission to install window tint darker than what is normally allowed under state law.
According to New York’s tint regulations, your vehicle’s front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. Anything darker can result in fines, failed inspections, or mandatory tint removal—unless you are medically exempt.
To apply for this exemption, the MV-80W form must be completed and signed by a licensed physician or optometrist. The form certifies that you have a medical condition that makes exposure to sunlight harmful or dangerous, and that darker window tint is necessary to protect your health while driving.
Who is eligible to submit an MV-80W form for a tint exemption?
Anyone who suffers from a qualifying medical condition that increases sensitivity to light may be eligible to submit an MV-80W form. Conditions that commonly justify a tint exemption include:
- Lupus
- Albinism
- Melanoma or other skin cancers
- Photosensitivity
- Chronic migraines triggered by sunlight
- Psoriasis
- Photophobia
- Certain eye disorders requiring reduced light exposure
Eligibility isn’t limited to these conditions alone. If your physician determines that your condition requires protection from UV or visible light, they can certify your need for a tint exemption using the MV-80W form.
Where do I get the MV-80W form?
The MV-80W form can be obtained directly from the New York DMV website, or through a licensed physician who is familiar with the exemption process. However, many people find the traditional route—downloading the form, finding a doctor, booking an appointment, and filling it out correctly—to be confusing or time-consuming.
That’s why services like ForeverTint exist: to streamline and simplify this entire process, especially for those seeking a legally valid Online Window Tint Exemption.
How do I complete the MV-80W form correctly?
The MV-80W form must include the following:
- Your name, address, and driver’s license number
- A description of your medical condition
- A detailed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist
- A clear medical justification for why window tint is necessary
- The physician’s signature, license number, and contact information
Once completed, the form must be physically signed (digital signatures are not accepted), and mailed to the DMV. The DMV does not currently allow this form to be submitted electronically.
Incomplete or improperly filled-out forms may be denied, which is why working with a physician who understands the process is essential.
Why is the MV-80W form required for a medical tint exemption?
New York’s window tint laws are designed to prioritize road visibility and law enforcement safety. However, the state also acknowledges that medical exceptions are necessary in specific cases.
The MV-80W form ensures that:
- Only individuals with a verified medical condition receive the exemption
- The tint exemption is documented in the DMV’s records
Law enforcement can verify the legitimacy of your exemption during traffic stops or inspections
Without an approved MV-80W on file, any tint darker than 70% VLT on front windows is illegal, regardless of your medical situation.
Can I get help with the MV-80W form online?
Yes—but only with services that are structured to meet New York’s legal requirements. ForeverTint provides a fully online solution that replaces the traditional doctor appointment and form submission headache.
Here’s how the process works with ForeverTint:
1. Start online
Visit ForeverTint’s state selection page and choose New York. This ensures that you’re following the proper exemption process for your state.
2. Purchase the Online Window Tint Exemption package
This includes a phone consultation with a licensed physician, eligibility assessment, and all required documentation—including your completed MV-80W.
3. Phone consultation with a licensed doctor
You’ll have a 5–10 minute phone call with one of ForeverTint’s licensed physicians. No in-person visits or video calls are needed. The doctor evaluates your condition and, if you qualify, completes and signs the MV-80W form.
4. Receive your MV-80W documentation
ForeverTint will email detailed mailing instructions and send your signed MV-80W form directly to you. From there, you simply mail the form to the New York DMV to finalize the process.
5. Full refund if not approved
If you don’t qualify for any reason, ForeverTint offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
What happens if I don’t submit the MV-80W form?
If you install dark tint without a medical exemption, you could face:
- Traffic tickets and fines
- Inspection failures
- Vehicle registration issues
- Being forced to remove the tint
By not submitting the MV-80W, you’re driving without legal protection—even if your tint is medically necessary. Submitting the form ensures you stay in compliance with New York law and protects your right to drive safely and comfortably.
Is my MV-80W form valid forever?
The MV-80W form can be used for both temporary and permanent exemptions, depending on your medical condition. Your physician will determine the duration based on your health needs. However, it’s good practice to carry the documentation in your vehicle and consult your physician periodically for updates.
Why use ForeverTint instead of doing it yourself?
ForeverTint provides the fastest and easiest legal path to a tint exemption in New York. By eliminating the need to schedule in-person doctor visits or figure out the legal process alone, ForeverTint helps ensure that your MV-80W is completed accurately and meets all DMV requirements.
Our physician team is familiar with New York’s specific exemption rules, and our process guarantees compliance, convenience, and clarity every step of the way.
Get Your Legal Window Tint Today
If you have a medical condition that requires sun protection while driving, don’t risk tickets or inspection failures by skipping the process. Submitting your MV-80W form correctly is the key to getting legal protection for your window tint. Visit https://forevertint.com/select-your-state/ and select New York to start your exemption today with physician-backed documentation.
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