A Doctor’s Note Starts a Four-Week Clock
Form MV-80W can win darker glass for lupus, albinism, or extreme
photosensitivity, but Albany needs four-to-six weeks and a copy of the
provider’s license. Approval ties to one person and one vehicle; trade-ins or
lease swaps restart the process. Until the certificate arrives, inspectors
still meter the glass, so consider UV-only clear film or removable shades.
The Insurance Photo Rule Didn’t Vanish for Everyone
The 2024 relief act let many carriers ditch pre-policy photos, yet regional
insurers and brokers kept them. Pictures must be taken before any wrap,
tint, or paint-protection film. Miss that window and a future vandalism claim
could be denied. Best practice: read your policy, snap daylight, date-stamped
pics, then book cosmetic upgrades on the same lift.
Mirrored tint triggers instant failure. Colored film still bombs inspection if
it lacks the tiny sticker or stacks below 70 percent on front glass. Assembly
Bill A4026 would hard-code a $200 first fine, $500 repeat, bankroll tint-only
sweeps, and yank plates after three strikes in two years. Spending $20 on a
meter session now beats piling up tickets, removal labor, and re-inspection
fees later.
Grab the six-step plan, waiver checklist, and
tint-wrap coordination tips:
