Can You Get a Tint Exemption for Keratoconus in New York?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing severe light sensitivity, glare, and distorted vision — all worsened by bright sunlight.
Keratoconus Symptoms That Qualify
The following symptoms of Keratoconus are relevant to qualifying for a window tint medical exemption in New York:
- Progressive worsening of vision
- Extreme sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent prescription changes
- Ghosting or multiple images
- Difficulty driving in bright conditions
How Keratoconus Qualifies You for a Tint Exemption
The irregular cornea scatters light into debilitating glare patterns during New York driving — summer sun on highways and winter snow glare across the state both worsen symptoms. With dense traffic across NYC, Long Island, and Westchester requiring constant visual attention, keratoconus is especially dangerous. Under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law §375(12-a), diagnosed keratoconus patients qualify for tint exemptions.
To qualify, you need to demonstrate that your Keratoconus makes it medically necessary for you to have darker window tint than what New York law normally allows. Our licensed physicians review your existing documentation against state requirements — we do not diagnose. You must already have records from a primary care physician or eye care specialist confirming your condition.
How to Get Your Exemption
Complete the Online Application
Submit your personal information and upload your existing medical documentation confirming your Keratoconus diagnosis. This takes about 5 minutes.
Physician Reviews Your Documentation
A licensed New York physician reviews your Keratoconus documentation against state exemption requirements within 24 hours.
Receive Your Exemption
Once approved, you'll receive your official tint exemption certificate digitally. Keep it in your vehicle at all times.
Current New York Tint Laws
Without a medical exemption, New York law limits window tint to 70% VLT VLT on front side windows and 70% VLT VLT on back side windows. Violations carry fines starting at $150 fine.
With an approved medical exemption for Keratoconus, you may be permitted to have darker window tint than these standard limits, providing the protection you need while staying legal.