Third Brake light question

[elvis240sx]

I have a question about lighting. I own a 90 240sx fastback. These come with a third brake light built into the hatch lid. I am wondering if it is legal to take this brake light out and cover over the hole. Otherwise known as "shaving" the light. I live in New York. If anyone knows if I need to keep this light for legal reasons, or if you know where I can go to look this up, it would be appreciated. Thanks

[S13Drifter]

It is illegal. Some study done by the government said most people see the center tail light so every car made after some date has to have a center tail light. Of course if you don't get caught. . .

[S13Drifter]

Ya i didn't know the year, i have hear 50% less too but that sounds like alot. Of couse you can prove anything with a satistic.