DATE: 12/27/2016
TO: ALL INSPECTION STATIONS
FROM: NYS DMV
SUBJECT: WINDOW TINT INSPECTION FAQ’s
 
PLEASE BRING THIS MESSAGE TO THE ATTENTION OF THE STATION OWNER AND/OR
MANAGER
 
As stated in NYVIP2 Messages, No. 223, 224, and 225, examination of window tinting will be included as part of the annual safety inspection, effective January 1, 2017.  All group 1a and 2a inspection stations are required to have a two-piece window tint meter and inspect window tint in accordance with the new regulations.   
Below is a list of frequently asked questions for your use.
 
 
 
Window Tint FAQ’s
 
 
1. Which windows are required to be inspected for 1992 and newer model year vehicles?   
  • First you need to check the federal motor vehicle safety certification label usually found on the driver’s door jamb, and determine the vehicle type (classification).  Here are two examples of the Federal Label: 

                
 
 

  • If the vehicle is classified as “Passenger Car,” check all windows for a minimum Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) of 70%.  However, the rear window (sometimes referred to as a backlite or rear windshield) is exempt from inspection if the vehicle is equipped with dual outside rearview mirrors.
  • For all other vehicle types, (i.e., MPV, Truck, Bus, etc.) inspect the windshield and all side windows adjacent to or forward of the driver and front seat passenger for a minimum VLT of 70%.  Side windows to the rear of the driver’s seating position are exempt from inspection.  
  • The rear window (sometimes referred to as a backlite or rear windshield) is exempt from inspection if the vehicle is equipped with dual outside rearview mirrors.
 
2. Which windows are required to be inspected for 1991 and older model year vehicles?    
  • The windshield and side windows adjacent to or forward of the driver and front seat passenger always require inspection and must allow for a minimum VLT of 35%.  
  • The rear window (sometimes referred to as a backlite or rear windshield) is only inspected if the vehicle is not equipped with dual outside rearview mirrors.  If the window is inspected it must allow for a minimum VLT of 35%.
  • Please note: Side windows to the rear of the driver’s seating position are never inspected on these vehicles.
 
3. What does VLT stand for?  
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmittance.  This is presented as the percentage (%) of light passing through a particular window. 
 
4. If a vehicle has a valid medical exemption where do I find the MV-80W.2 and what does it look like?  
The exemption certificate is normally found on the inside center top of any window, except the windshield.  The certificate is a white 2.5 inch paper square.  Valid means the vehicle information printed on the exemption certificate (plate, make, year and color) must match the vehicle.  
 
5. What if a motorist presents a letter that appears to come from DMV or a doctor’s note stating that the vehicle is exempt from window tint inspection? 
The vehicle can only be exempted from the window tint inspection if a valid MV-80W.2 exemption certificate is displayed on the vehicle.   A doctor’s note does not excuse a vehicle from window tint inspection.  A motorist interested in an exemption should be directed to DMV’s website at https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv80w.pdf to obtain further information.
 
6. What if a vehicle is presented for inspection with a window(s) that cannot be rolled up to inspect glass for applied window tint?  
If a side window is rolled all the way down and cannot be rolled back up for some reason the vehicle must be rejected for “Windshield and other Glass,” since the window cannot be properly inspected for condition and window tint.
 
7. Can a station record the readings obtained from window tint meter in the NYVIP CVIS?   No, this is not required.  Optionally, a station / certified inspector wanting to document their findings may choose to hand write the meter readings obtained onto the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) printed by the CVIS or the station generated inspection receipt for those stations not required to maintain a CVIS.
 
8. Is the tinted shade band on a windshield subject to inspection? 
Any tinting covering the uppermost six inches of the windshield is not subject to inspection, per VTL  section 375 12-a(b)(1).  
 
9. Are government or private fleet vehicles exempt from the window tint inspection requirements?  
A government or fleet owned vehicle is not exempt from window tint inspection regulations and is subject to the same inspection criteria.
 
10. Can I advise a motorist that a vehicle fails for tint before beginning the inspection?  No.  A station must always perform a complete inspection of any vehicle presented for inspection, checking all required items as required by section 79.8(b)(1) and 79.20(c)(6).
 
11. Do I have to use the window tint meter on every vehicle I inspect?   
In accordance with regulations, if a window clearly meets (passes) the required light transmittance standard, and there is no aftermarket window tint film applied, it is not necessary to use a meter to measure the amount of visible light transmittance (VLT) However it is the stations obligation to ensure the vehicle meets the required standard, so if you have any doubt, you must use the meter. 
 
12. Can stations use a one-piece window tint meter?   
A station has the option of using a one-piece tint meter to make it easier to check roll up side windows.  This is completely optional and not a requirement.  A station is required to purchase and maintain a two-piece window tint meter capable of measuring VLT through all immovable glass.  However, if the station chooses to utilize an optional one piece meter on side windows it is the stations responsibility to ensure the entire window meets the VLT requirement in regulation, not just the edge where the meter is testing.
 
13. Do I have to clean the window(s) before testing with the window tint meter? It is not required, however dirt and grime may interfere with testing results. 
 
14. What if the rear window is heated?   
When using the two-piece meter to check a rear window (sometimes referred to as a backlite or rear windshield) that is heated, avoid testing over a heated window grid line to ensure a proper measurement of VLT. 
 
15. What should I do if a motorist presents a “stretch” limousine for inspection? Review regulation sections 79.20(f)(1), (2), and (3) regarding the inspection of stretch limousines.  If, in accordance with regulation, the vehicle is eligible for inspection at a DMVlicensed inspection station, then inspect the window tinting in accordance with regulations.
16. Can I use my smartphone “app” as a substitute window tint meter?  
No, a smart phone app does not comply with DMV regulation 79.9(d)(1). 
 
17. What meters are approved for use by DMV?
DMV is not approving specific meters for use.  A station may choose any window tint meter as long as it complies with section 79.9(a)(9) of the inspection regulation.  This means the meter must be capable of measuring VLT through immovable glass (i.e.
windshields, etc.).  Additionally, the station must calibrate and maintain the meter per manufacturers’ specifications.