UK drivers to retake their eye test

In a recent bid to tackle road accidents in the UK, the DVLA has asked all drivers to test their eyesight and ensure that they are following the required actions to pass their tests and stay safe whilst driving.

According to a DVLA survey conducted earlier this year, over 50% of motorists are not even aware that there exists a minimum standard needed to keep or obtain your drivers license.

The truth is that drivers MUST be able to read another vehicle’s number plate, with ease, from 20m (65ft) away.

We encourage all drivers, new and old, to test that they can indeed meet these standards, and to test their eyesight regularly in case of any changes. Those who find that they indeed cannot easily read a number plate from this distance, are required to visit an optician for the necessary glasses or lenses. It is further encouraged that drivers get their eyes tested every 5-10 years, even if they have never before needed a prescription for their sight.

It is your responsibility to keep yourself and others on the road safe at all times. The test takes only 1 minutes out of your day and does the world of good. If you are unsure what 20m is, you can envision this distance as ‘roughly 5 car lengths’. You can also test your vision when assessing passing cars on busy roads and seeing if you can read their license plates.

If you are still unsure how to perform this test, or have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact our team today! We would be delighted to give you advice to ensure that you stay safe on the road.

Have a great day,

Arrow Driving Academy