TL;DR
Whether you’re a new driver or you’ve held your licence for years, checking your vision regularly is something you shouldn’t ignore.
Failing to spot hazards, read signs, or judge distances properly can be risky. Poor vision doesn’t just put you at risk of accidents, it can also land you in legal trouble if you’re found unfit to drive.
If you’re unsure where to begin or want to be confident that your eyesight meets the required standards, keep reading. Below you’ll find simple ways to test your vision at home, the legal requirements, and what to do if your sight is getting worse.
The legal vision standards for driving
Before testing your own eyesight, it helps to know the minimum requirements for driving on roads.
What you must be able to do
- Read a car number plate from 20 metres away (with glasses or contact lenses, if you use them).
- Have a visual acuity of at least 6/12, with both eyes together or in the better eye if you can only see from one.
- Maintain a sufficient field of vision, as assessed by an optician or DVLA if needed.
If you can’t meet these standards, you’re legally required to stop driving and inform the DVLA.
Quick at-home tests to check your eyesight
You don’t need fancy equipment to get a rough idea of your vision health. Here are a few quick tests you can do at home:
1. The number plate test
One of the simplest and most reliable checks.
How to do it:
- Find a car parked on a flat road with a clean number plate.
- Measure out 20 metres from the vehicle. (This is about five car lengths or roughly the size of a cricket pitch.)
- Try to read the plate using each eye separately, then both together.
If you can’t read it clearly, it’s time to book an eye test.
2. Online vision screening tools
Several opticians offer free online eye checks. These are not full tests, but they can highlight if something’s off.
Popular tools include:
- Specsavers Online Vision Test
- Boots Online Eye Check
They usually assess how well you can read letters from different distances and under different contrasts.
3. Contrast sensitivity
This helps you see objects in low light or fog conditions. Simple way to test it:
- Print out two lines of grey letters—one light, one dark.
- Try to read them in dim lighting.
- If one line is hard to read, your contrast sensitivity might be low.
4. Peripheral vision check
Peripheral vision helps you notice traffic around you, especially on motorways and roundabouts.
Try this:
- Stare straight ahead at a fixed point (like a picture on the wall).
- Hold your arms straight out to the sides.
- Wiggle your fingers and slowly bring your hands forward without moving your eyes.
You should see movement out of the corners of your eyes before your hands reach the front. If not, you might have a restricted field of vision.
Signs your eyesight might be slipping
Many people don’t notice changes in their eyesight straight away. Here are some early signs to watch for:
- Squinting to see distant objects
- Trouble seeing road signs or reading number plates
- Headaches after driving
- Halos or glare from headlights at night
- Misjudging distances when parking or turning
- Frequently feeling tired or strained behind the wheel
If you notice any of these, it’s best to visit an optician as soon as possible.
When to see a professional
Even if you pass your self-tests, they’re not a replacement for a full eye examination.
Book an eye test if…
- It’s been two years or more since your last check-up.
- You’ve noticed a change in vision or are getting more frequent headaches.
- You drive often, especially at night or long distances.
- You’re over 60, as age-related vision changes are common.
Opticians use precise tools to check your visual acuity, peripheral vision, and eye health. If there are any issues, they’ll guide you through getting the right glasses, lenses, or treatment.
Driving with glasses or contact lenses
If you need glasses or contacts to meet the legal standard, you must wear them every time you drive. It’s also important to:
- Keep a spare pair of glasses in the car.
- Update your prescription regularly.
- Avoid driving if your lenses are uncomfortable or blurry.
Wearing the wrong prescription can be just as dangerous as driving without your glasses at all.
Related read: Are Contact Lenses Better Than Glasses?
What happens if you drive with poor vision?
Driving with vision below the legal limit is not only unsafe—it’s illegal. If you’re caught:
- You could get 3 penalty points on your licence.
- You might face a fine of up to £1,000.
- Your insurance may be invalidated if you’re in an accident.
- The DVLA could revoke your licence until your eyesight improves.
If you’re involved in a crash and your vision is to blame, the consequences can be far worse. That’s why it’s better to act early.
Keeping your vision sharp for the road
Your eyes, like the rest of your body, need care and regular attention. Here are some simple ways to keep your vision in top shape:
Tips to protect your sight
- Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, oily fish, and vitamin A.
- Wear sunglasses on bright days to protect against UV damage.
- Avoid smoking, which can increase your risk of eye disease.
- Take breaks during long drives to reduce eye strain.
- Use good lighting at night when driving or reading.
Take control of your driving safety
Testing your own vision is a smart step towards safer driving. It only takes a few minutes but can help you avoid major risks on the road. If anything feels off, don’t wait, book an eye test and take action. Your safety, and the safety of others, depends on it.
