SEVEN COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE STANDARD OF SIGHT REQUIRED FOR DRIVING

With roadside checks on this now increasingly taking place, we consulted Alastair Lockwood, eye health specialist and ophthalmologist at Feel Good Contacts, who answered for us seven key questions about the standards of vision required for driving.

What is the legal standard eyesight for driving?

Drivers must be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) to meet the legal minimum eyesight standards. The number plate must be made after 1st September 2001 and read easily.

How to check your vision is adequate for driving?

You can check yourself by reading a number plate from 20 metres away or by going for an eye test. Generally, you should have your eyes tested every two years and more occasionally if advised by your optometrist. Your optometrist will be able to tell you if you have an adequate field of vision and test your acuity on a Snellen chart. A Snellen chart is made up of capital letters in rows, descending in size and is used to measure how sharp your vision is.

What should I do if I feel my vision is getting worse for driving?

If you feel your vision is getting worse, you should visit your optician and get an eye test as soon as possible. Your optician will tell you if a new prescription is required or refer you to an eye specialist if you have a severe eye condition, which you need to declare to the DVLA.