The importance of regular eye exams for drivers

Driving plays an integral part in our daily activities, however, this independence comes with some legal standards that must be met. The simplest way to check if you meet the DVLA vision standard for group 1 drivers is by reading a number plate at 20 metres (with glasses or contact lenses if required), we recommend doing this regularly. For lorry, bus and licensed taxi drivers. the requirements are more stringent.

Even when the standards are met, a common complaint from many is that, under certain conditions (bad weather/glare/headlights), our ability to confidently drive is still affected. Around 2900 road casualties per year are due to poor vision, so having a regular sight test and encouraging others to do so too goes a long way in keeping our roads safe.

We recommend a routine check with your local optometrists at least once every 2 years, as slow changes in your vision can be easily missed. The consultation includes a check on your vision with a Snellen chart and if necessary, an assessment of your peripheral vision with a Visual Fields test. In addition to this, the optician would have an extensive look at the health of your eyes, as several eye conditions can affect your distance vision and lead to blind spots in your peripheral vision.

Once you’ve completed the examination, the optometrist will be able to tell you if there is a need for spectacle correction or if any further assessments are required for the health aspect.

If you have any concerns regarding your vision or you are just simply due an eye examination, get yourself booked in for a consultation with your local opticians today.

Please also see the government website for driving eyesight rules and read guidance from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

https://www.gov.uk/driving-eyesight-rules

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-standards-of-vision-for-driving-cars-and-motorcycles-group-1