Changes to DVLA eyesight rule that could lead to drivers losing their licence

Changes to a DVLA eyesight rule could end up leading to drivers losing their licence.

I mean, it’s pretty basic that someone needs to be able to see to be able to drive.

And while Brits might not all be happy with the new speed limit law that will ‘change how we drive’, even that’s not relevant if your visions not up to scratch.

Depending on how much of the day you’ve blocked out to forget the stress, you might remember having your eyesight checked during your driving test.

You know, when the examiner asks you to read out a car number plate from 65 feet away.

But since that dreaded day, it’s been your own responsibility to keep up with your eye health and report any problems to the DVLA.

Legally, of course, you shouldn’t be getting behind the wheel if you’re worried your eyesight isn’t up to scratch.

You shouldn't be getting behind the wheel if your sight isn't up to scratch. (Getty Stock)

And things are getting a little tighter. According to Auto Express, the DVLA is placing more emphasis on visual acuity and field of vision – as well as distance.

So, if you’re a glasses or contact lenses wearer, when it comes to the whole reading a number plate from 65ft thing, you should be wearing them for that test.

Plus, drivers have to make sure they score at least 6/12 (or 0.5) for their visual acuity measurement on the Snellen scale.

Yeah, I know, this sounds like a made up phrase but it’s just the name for that chart with the rows of numbers and letters that opticians use.

It measures visual acuity – essentially, the way you pick out details.

Then, the field of vision thing is quite literally all about the area you can see with your eyes remaining still.

It's up to you to report any issues. (Getty Stock)

The DVLA’s minimum requirement is that you can see 120 degrees horizontally and 20 degrees vertically.

If you’re blind in one eye, then the other eye must have perfect field of vision.

And in case you’ve not noticed, no one from the DVLA or driving test centre will have been following up with you since asking that you read out another car number plate.

So, it totally falls on you to report any eyesight issues and therefore not drive if you think your sight was worsened.

If you do think this is the case, then go have your eyes tested and looked at before driving. If you fail to tell the DVLA, then you could end up facing a £1k fine, being prosecuted or having you license taken off you if you end up in an accident.