If you’re a New York resident with a health condition that makes sun exposure harmful or unsafe, you may be eligible for a window tint exemption. This legal exemption allows you to install darker window tint on your vehicle than normally permitted under New York State law—but only with proper documentation from a licensed medical provider.
So, what medical conditions qualify for a window tint exemption in New York?
In this blog, we’ll walk through the most commonly approved conditions, explain how the approval process works, and show how ForeverTint makes it easy to complete your exemption request with physician support.
What does New York law say about medical window tint exemptions?
New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law mandates that front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. This means any tint darker than 70% is considered illegal—unless the driver has received a medical exemption.
To get legally approved, you must submit the MV-80W form, which is a document completed and signed by a licensed physician or optometrist. This form certifies that you have a legitimate medical reason for needing additional sun protection while driving.
Once approved, your medical tint exemption allows you to drive with legally darkened windows. But not every medical condition qualifies—you’ll need to meet certain criteria.
What Types of Medical Conditions Qualify for NY Tint Exemptions?
While the New York DMV does not publish an official list of qualifying conditions, physicians commonly approve window tint exemptions for individuals with the following types of conditions:
1. Autoimmune Disorders – Lupus (SLE)
Lupus is one of the most recognized conditions for tint exemptions. UV exposure can trigger serious flare-ups, skin rashes, fatigue, and internal inflammation. Physicians often recommend limiting sunlight exposure for lupus patients, including while driving.
2. Genetic Conditions – Albinism
Albinism reduces or eliminates melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes, which results in extreme sensitivity to light. Dark window tint helps minimize UV exposure, reducing the risk of burns and eye strain. This is almost always a qualifying condition.
3. Photosensitivity and Photophobia
Photosensitivity (or photophobia) is a condition where individuals experience pain or discomfort in bright light. It can be a standalone symptom or caused by conditions like migraines, meningitis, or eye disease. Patients with photophobia often qualify for medical tint exemptions.
4. Skin Cancers – Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma
If you’ve had melanoma or are at risk due to past diagnoses, your doctor may recommend that you avoid prolonged sun exposure, even inside a car. A tint exemption helps reduce the risk of recurrence or skin damage, especially during peak daylight hours.
5. Psoriasis, Eczema, and Rosacea
These inflammatory skin conditions can be worsened by heat or UV rays. When flare-ups are severe or frequent, medical providers may recommend limited sun exposure, including through automotive windows.
6. Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP)
This rare genetic disorder prevents the body from repairing UV-related DNA damage. Even minimal UV exposure can be dangerous. XP patients almost always qualify for the darkest allowable window tint with a physician’s note.
7. Chronic Migraines Triggered by Light
Light-triggered migraines can be debilitating, and exposure to sunlight through car windows can provoke symptoms. A tint exemption allows patients to drive more safely by limiting direct light exposure.
8. Retinal Disorders and Other Eye Conditions
Conditions such as macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, uveitis, or severe cataracts may impair the eyes’ ability to process light safely. These disorders often make patients sensitive to glare, brightness, and sunlight while driving—especially at dawn and dusk. Physicians often recommend medical tinting for visual comfort and safety.
9. Bloom Syndrome and Similar Rare Disorders
Bloom Syndrome and other photosensitive conditions can also qualify if supported by proper medical documentation. These syndromes may cause immune deficiencies, sun-triggered skin rashes, or higher cancer risks.
Can temporary medical conditions qualify for an exemption?
Yes, in some cases. If you are recovering from eye surgery, undergoing radiation therapy, or suffering from a temporary light-sensitive condition, a physician may issue a short-term exemption using the same MV-80W form.
ForeverTint’s doctors will assess whether your condition merits a temporary or permanent tint exemption, and the duration will be reflected on the documentation.
What if my condition isn’t on this list?
You may still qualify. The conditions listed above are the most common, but New York law gives physicians flexibility in determining medical necessity. If your doctor believes that reduced light exposure is important for your health or safety, they may approve your exemption.
ForeverTint offers a consultation with licensed physicians who are trained to assess eligibility based on New York’s specific tint exemption standards.
How does the medical exemption process work in New York?
Here’s a quick overview of how to legally obtain your tint exemption:
1. Consult with a Licensed Physician
A doctor must evaluate your condition and determine whether a tint exemption is medically necessary.
2. Have the MV-80W Form Completed
Your physician must fill out and sign the official MV-80W form from the DMV. This form certifies that you need additional protection from light for medical reasons.
3. Submit the Form to the New York DMV
The DMV does not accept digital signatures or online submissions. The form must be physically signed and mailed to the DMV with original documentation.
4. Keep Proof in Your Vehicle
Once approved, you must keep a copy of your medical exemption paperwork in your vehicle at all times. Law enforcement officers may request it during a traffic stop or vehicle inspection.
Why use ForeverTint to help with your exemption?
ForeverTint simplifies the entire exemption process with an online, physician-backed solution. Instead of trying to find a doctor on your own, booking an appointment, and navigating legal paperwork, ForeverTint handles it for you:
- Online pre-qualification and checkout
- Phone consultation with a licensed physician
- MV-80W form completed and signed
- Form mailed directly to you
- Detailed instructions for mailing it to the DMV
- Full refund if you’re not approved
ForeverTint’s doctors understand how to properly document qualifying medical conditions and ensure that your exemption is processed the right way the first time.
What happens if I drive with dark tint but no exemption?
Without a valid medical exemption:
- Your vehicle may fail inspection
- You could receive traffic citations or fines
- You may be required to remove the tint
- Repeated violations could result in license points or penalties
That’s why it’s essential to follow the correct exemption process, get physician approval, and submit your documentation to the DMV.
ForeverTint helps you do exactly that.
Get Your Legal Window Tint Today
If you have a medical condition that requires reduced light exposure, there is a legal solution available. You don’t have to risk citations or unsafe driving conditions.
ForeverTint helps New York drivers get legally approved for tint exemptions through our licensed physician network and streamlined online process.
Visit https://forevertint.com/select-your-state/ and choose New York to start your exemption process today.
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