If you drive in the UK, you are legally required to meet minimum eyesight standards. Whether you are a learner preparing for your practical test, an experienced driver, or a professional HGV or PSV driver, understanding and meeting these requirements is essential for your safety and legal compliance.
The DVLA requires that you can read a modern number plate (with a font height of 79mm) from a distance of 20 metres. For older-style number plates, the distance is 20.5 metres. In clinical terms, this broadly equates to a visual acuity of 6/12 or better (measured on a Snellen chart) using both eyes together, with glasses or contact lenses if you normally wear them. You must also have a field of vision of at least 120 degrees horizontally with no significant defects within the central 20 degrees.
Your optometrist can carry out a driving vision assessment to confirm whether you meet these standards. This typically involves a number plate reading test at 20 metres, a visual acuity test on a letter chart, and a visual field assessment. Many opticians include these checks as part of a standard eye test at no extra cost. If a standalone driving vision test is needed, it typically costs £15 to £30.
For professional drivers — those holding HGV (Category C) or PSV (Category D) licences — the visual acuity standard is higher. You need at least 6/7.5 visual acuity in your best eye and at least 6/60 in the other eye, plus a wider field of vision requirement. If you hold a Group 2 licence, regular vision checks are part of your medical renewal process.
If your vision does not meet the driving standard, you must stop driving and inform the DVLA. If glasses or contact lenses can correct your vision to the required level, you can drive wearing them — but you must wear them every time. Driving without adequate eyesight is a serious offence.