The Importance of Corrective Eyewear

If your visual acuity does not meet the minimum standard for driving without corrective lenses, you are strongly advised to wear your glasses or contact lenses whenever you are behind the wheel. Proper vision is crucial for ensuring not only your safety but also the safety of other road users.

DVLA Driving Standards

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has established specific vision standards for drivers to follow. These standards are categorised into two groups: Group 1 and Group 2. The information provided here pertains to Group 1 vehicles, which include cars. Stricter vision standards are applied to Group 2 vehicles, such as larger vehicles and LGVs (Large Goods Vehicles). Detailed information on the standards for Group 2 vehicles can be found on the official DVLA website.

Visual Acuity Requirements

The DVLA requires that vision for driving be assessed with both eyes open. To meet the vision standard, you must be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres. This distance corresponds to 6/12 on our optician’s chart. If you cannot meet these standards without the aid of glasses or contact lenses, it is mandatory to wear them while driving.

Peripheral Vision (Visual Field)

In addition to visual acuity, the DVLA mandates a minimum requirement for peripheral vision, known as the visual field. This measures how well you can see out of the corners of your eyes (peripheral vision). Your optician will be able to explain these requirements in detail and conduct the necessary tests to determine if you meet the DVLA’s standards for peripheral vision.

Eye Conditions Affecting Driving

There are specific eye conditions that may impact your ability to meet the DVLA’s vision standards for Group 1 (car) drivers. It is crucial to inform the DVLA if you have any eye conditions that affect your vision, especially if you suffer from the following:

  • Glaucoma: This condition can cause visual field defects similar to tunnel vision. If the central parts of your vision are significantly affected, it may prevent you from driving. However, if glaucoma affects only one eye, it might not necessarily disqualify you from driving.
  • Macular Degeneration and Cataracts: These conditions can impair visual acuity. If your vision falls below the DVLA’s specified standards, your optician will inform you if it is no longer safe for you to drive.

It is essential to note that you do NOT need to inform the DVLA if:

  • You are short-sighted or long-sighted.
  • You are colour blind.
  • You have had corrective eye surgery or any other eye operations, provided there are no lingering complications affecting your vision.

Driver’s Responsibility

It is the driver’s responsibility to inform the DVLA of any changes to their eye condition that could impact their ability to drive safely. Failure to meet these standards and continuing to drive without informing the DVLA poses serious risks. Not only does it endanger public safety, but it can also result in the voiding of your insurance cover.

Seeking Further Information

For any further information or concerns regarding your vision standards for driving, please do not hesitate to reach out to our optometrists. They are available to answer your questions and provide the necessary tests to ensure you are fit to drive. You may also book an appointment for a comprehensive eye test to keep your vision and driving standards in check.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures that you drive safely and legally, protecting yourself and others on the road.