New York DMV Medical Tint Exemption — The Full Process

Does New York Require a DMV Filing for a Medical Tint Exemption?

No. New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §375(12-a)(b) creates a physician-issued medical exemption. There is no separate application to the New York DMV, no special vehicle registration, and no endorsement on your license. The exemption consists entirely of a written authorization from a licensed New York State physician that you carry in your vehicle at all times.

What New York Law Requires

The New York Exemption Process — No Office Visit

1. 1. Submit online intake — complete your medical history and qualifying condition description
2. 2. NY physician review — a New York State-licensed physician reviews your case within 24 hours
3. 3. Receive authorization — download and print your NY tint exemption certificate
4. 4. Keep it in your vehicle — present to NYPD, NYSP, or any officer upon request

New York's Annual Vehicle Inspection and Tint

New York State requires annual safety inspections. Window tint is checked during inspection. Without a medical exemption, tint darker than 70% VLT on any window will cause an inspection failure. With a valid exemption, the inspection station notes your medical authorization and passes your vehicle.

This is especially important in New York because a failed inspection prevents registration renewal — a significant practical consequence beyond just a tint citation.

NY-licensed physician · Valid for traffic stops and DMV inspections

Official New York Resources

• New York DMV
• NY VTL §375
• New York State Police