Driving and Vision

DVLA and DVA driving eyesight rules

If you drive a car you must:

  • be able to read (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate in the format introduced after 1 September 2001 from 20 metres;
  • have a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen scale (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) using both eyes together or, if you have sight in one eye only, in that eye. Your optometrist will be able to tell you if you meet this standard; and
  • have an adequate field of vision. If your optometrist detects a reduced visual field they will tell you to inform the DVLA. The DVLA will then arrange for you to have this assessed, using both of your eyes together, to make sure you are legal to drive.
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Driving and Vision

If you have been told by your optometrist to wear glasses for driving, you must wear them every time you drive – even on short trips when you know the roads.

There are special lenses to help with driving if you find that car headlights are a real struggle for you.

This fantastic questionnaire will help you find the best lenses for you.

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