DVLA rules are in place to keep drivers safe on the road and among them are requirements ensuring all motorists can see properly behind the wheel.
While those with vision issues may be aware of the rules which determine eyesight standards for drivers, guidelines state that all motorists should be regularly taking one test to check their own eyesight. The number plate test takes seconds and does not require a visit to the opticians.
As dark winter days set in, there are a number of dangerous driving conditions that come with the changing seasons. With daylight hours decreasing and the weather getting worse, drivers should be taking the time to make sure they can properly see when behind the wheel.
It is important to highlight that anyone with a chronic vision issue must report it to the DVLA. In fact, there are 112 health conditions you must declare to officials, or risk facing fines.
If you are not aware of the eyesight standards for driving you can read below to learn more and how to take the number plate test.
What are the eyesight standards for driving?
To meet the minimum eyesight standards for driving in Scotland and throughout the UK, you must be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away.
You can take the test wearing your glasses or contact lenses if necessary. The number plate must be one made after September 1, 2001.
You must also have an adequate field of vision - your optician can tell you about this and do a test.
How do you take the number plate test?
There is no need to get your measuring stick out, 20 metres is roughly the length of five parked cars or two double decked busses.
The number plate test is a simple and effective way to check if your eyesight meets the required standard for driving. Anyone can do the test at any time.
When do you need to let the DVLA about a change in eyesight?
You must inform the DVLA if you have any problems with your eyesight that impacts both your eyes, or the remaining eye you have if you only have one.
You 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).
This does not include being long sighted, short 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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