Millions of UK drivers who depend on glasses or contact lenses must wear them at all times behind the wheel to comply with legal vision standards. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to prosecution and licence revocation.
Key Vision Standards for All Drivers
Drivers need to read a number plate from 20 metres away—about the length of five parked cars—while using any necessary corrective lenses. They must also achieve a visual acuity of at least 6/12 (decimal 0.5) on the Snellen scale with both eyes or the single remaining eye. An adequate field of vision is essential, which opticians assess through specialized tests.
Notifying the DVLA of Vision Changes
Drivers must inform the DVLA about any condition affecting vision in both eyes or the remaining eye. Common issues like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or colour blindness do not require reporting if standards are met. Individuals who have undergone laser surgery for short-sightedness also avoid notification if their vision now satisfies legal limits.
Reporting a vision-related medical condition may prompt the DVLA to arrange a free eyesight test with a contracted optician. Drivers opting for tests elsewhere must cover costs themselves, and results require an Esterman visual field test for DVLA acceptance.
Stricter Rules for Lorry and Bus Drivers
Professional drivers of lorries or buses face elevated standards: visual acuity of at least 6/7.5 in the best eye and 6/60 in the other on the Snellen scale. They need a horizontal field of vision spanning at least 160 degrees, free of defects in the central 30 degrees. Corrective glasses are permitted up to +8 dioptres, with no limit specified for contact lenses.
Vision Checks During Driving Tests
Eyesight forms a critical part of the practical driving test. Learners must read a number plate on a parked vehicle at the start. Failure results in immediate test termination, DVLA notification, and licence revocation. To restore eligibility, candidates must pass a DVSA eyesight test at a test centre before retaking the practical exam.
