Tinted Windows can offer significant benefits, from enhancing vehicle aesthetics to providing crucial protection from the sun’s harsh rays. However, New Jersey has specific regulations regarding window tinting. This guide clarifies how you can legally tint your vehicle’s windshield and front side windows in New Jersey by obtaining a medical exemption.
Understanding New Jersey’s Tinted Window Regulations and Medical Exemptions
New Jersey law generally restricts windshield and front side window tinting to ensure driver visibility and safety. Despite these restrictions, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) provides a pathway for vehicle owners to tint their windows for medical reasons. If you have a medical condition that necessitates protection from sunlight, you may be eligible for a medical exemption allowing for window sunscreening, commonly known as window tinting.
This exemption is designed for individuals with medical conditions exacerbated by sun exposure. By obtaining this exemption, you can legally enjoy the benefits of tinted windows, which include:
- Reduced Glare: Tinted windows minimize glare from the sun and headlights, enhancing driving comfort and safety.
- Heat Reduction: Window tint can significantly reduce heat buildup inside your vehicle, making your car cooler and more comfortable, especially during hot summer months.
- UV Protection: High-quality window tint blocks a significant percentage of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, protecting you and your vehicle’s interior from sun damage.
- Increased Privacy: Tinted windows can offer a degree of privacy for vehicle occupants.
It’s important to note that obtaining a medical exemption is a necessary prerequisite before you can legally tint your vehicle’s windows in New Jersey. Tinting your windows without prior approval from the NJMVC can lead to violations and potential fines.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Medical Exemption for Tinted Windows
The process for obtaining a medical exemption for tinted windows in New Jersey involves several key steps. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your application is processed smoothly:
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Begin by downloading and completing the “Request for Medical Exemption to Apply Vehicle Sun-screening” form, officially known as form “MVC Sunscreening 1”. This form is available on the NJMVC website or through the provided link. Ensure all sections of the form are accurately filled out, including your personal information, vehicle details, and the medical justification for your request.
Step 2: Submit Your Application to the NJMVC
Once the form is complete, mail it along with any required medical documentation to the NJMVC Customer Advocacy Office at the following address:
Customer Advocacy Office
Attn: Sunscreening Exemption
PO Box 403
Trenton, NJ 08666-0403
Alternatively, you may be able to submit your application and supporting documents electronically via email. Check the NJMVC website for the most current email submission instructions if available.
Step 3: Await Temporary Approval
After submitting your application, allow processing time for the NJMVC to review your request. If your application is preliminarily approved, you will receive a temporary approval document titled “MVC Sunscreening 2,” valid for 60 days. Along with this temporary approval, you will also receive a Sunscreening Installation Confirmation form, “MVC Sunscreening 3.” Crucially, do not proceed with window tinting until you receive these approval documents.
Step 4: Professional Sunscreen Installation
Upon receiving the temporary approval and confirmation forms, take these documents to a licensed sunscreening facility in New Jersey. A list of licensed facilities is provided by the NJMVC for your convenience (see below). Have a certified installer at a licensed facility perform the window tinting. The installer will then complete and sign the Sunscreening Installation Confirmation page (MVC Sunscreening 3).
Step 5: Keep Temporary Approval in Your Vehicle
Always keep the temporary approval document (“MVC Sunscreening 2”) in your vehicle while driving. This document serves as proof of your pending exemption while you complete the application process.
Step 6: Submit Installation Confirmation
After the window tint is installed, submit the completed and signed MVC Installation Confirmation page (MVC Sunscreening 3) back to the Customer Advocacy Office. You can submit this form via email or mail it to the PO Box address mentioned in Step 2.
Step 7: Receive Permanent Approval
Once the NJMVC receives your installation confirmation, they will process your permanent approval. You will then receive a permanent approval document, “MVC Sunscreening 4,” valid for 48 months. This permanent approval document must be kept in your vehicle at all times. You will need to present this document to law enforcement if requested and for vehicle inspection purposes. As a courtesy, it is advisable to roll down your tinted windows if you are pulled over by law enforcement.
Step 8: Renew Your Sunscreening Document
Your medical exemption for tinted windows is valid for 48 months. To continue legally having tinted windows, you must renew your Sunscreening document before it expires. Use form “MVC Sunscreening 1” to renew your exemption. Start the renewal process in advance of the expiration date to avoid any lapse in your legal authorization.
List of Licensed Tinting Facilities in New Jersey (Examples)
To ensure compliance and proper installation, utilize only NJMVC-licensed facilities for your window tinting needs. Here are a few examples of licensed facilities in New Jersey:
- Andy’s Window Tint, Clifton, NJ
- Electronic Environment, Lawrenceville, NJ
- Imagine Audio, Cherry Hill, NJ
- JG Holdings of New Jersey, Inc., Neptune, NJ
- Fabulous Auto Alarms, LLC, Passaic, NJ
- Richard E. Richie Enterprises Inc., Forked River, NJ
- Top Shelf Automotive, LLC, Newark, NJ
- Coastal Sound Shop Inc., Northfield, NJ
- Shore Customs, Ocean, NJ
- The Window Tinters LLC, Mount Laurel, NJ
- Gabrielle Window Tinting Inc, Medford, NJ
For a complete and up-to-date list of licensed facilities, please refer to the NJMVC website or contact the Customer Advocacy Office.
Maintaining Compliance and Further Resources
Remember, it is crucial to adhere to all NJMVC regulations regarding tinted windows and medical exemptions. Always carry your valid approval document in your vehicle and renew your exemption as required.
For further information and resources, you can refer to the following related links on the NJMVC website:
- Medical Review
- Why Medical Review Is Needed
- Reporting A Concern
- Medical Review Process
- Contact Medical Review Unit
- FAQ
- Driver Rehabilitation
- Window Sun-screening For Medical Reasons
- Request for Medical Exemption to Apply Vehicle Sun-screening
- Sunscreening Frequently Asked Questions
- Sunscreen Regulations
By following these guidelines, you can legally and safely enjoy the benefits of tinted windows in New Jersey while adhering to state regulations. Always prioritize safety and compliance with the law.
