Rules set by the DVLA are in place to keep motorists safe on the road - and one requirement for driving is making sure all road users can see properly behind the wheel.
While people with vision issues may be well aware of the rules that set out eyesight standards, guidelines state that all motorists should be checking their vision regularly, reports the Daily Record.
The number plate test should be taken regularly, as it only takes seconds - and it does not require an opticians appointment. As the darker nights roll in, there are a number of weather conditions that make driving more dangerous.
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With daylight decreasing by the day, and the weather worsening, people who drive should be taking the time out to make sure their vision is up to the standard to sit behind the wheel. It is important to highlight that anyone with a chronic vision issue must report it to the DVLA.
There are actually 112 health conditions that must be declared to DVLA officials, or they could risk facing a fine. If you are not aware of the eyesight standards for driving, read on below to learn more and how to take the number plate test.
What are the eyesight standards for driving?
According to the DVLA, any driver in Scotland must be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away to meet the minimum standards for vision.
You can take the test wearing your glasses or contact lenses if needed, and the number plate must be one made after September 1, 2001. Drivers must also have an adequate field of vision, which can be checked by an optician.
How do I take the number plate test?
All you have to do is read a number plate from 20 metres away - which is the equivalent to five parked cars, or two double decker buses. The number plate test is a simple and effective way to check if your eyesight meets the required standard for driving.
The test can be done at any time, anywhere - a useful situation could be parking the car at the shops, and checking it as you walk to the doors.
When do I need to let the DVLA know about a change in my eyesight?
You must inform the DVLA as soon as possible if you have any problems with your eyesight that impacts both your eyes, or the remaining eye you have if you only have one.
People must also meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving, by having a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12), measured on the Snellen scale. This is the chart that eye specialists and optometrist use to decide if you can be certified as severely sight impaired (blind) or sight impaired (partially sighted).
The rules do not include being short or long sighted, or colour blind. You also do not need to say if you’ve had surgery to correct short sightedness and can meet the eyesight standards.
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