New eye test could take 17million drivers off the roads

Motorists have been told to prepare for law changes requiring extensive eyesight tests to drive on Britain’s roads. Experts from LeaseCar.uk[1] have warned that drivers who are unable to see well in the dark could have their licence revoked as the DVSA tightens driving requirements. With 17 million UK drivers struggling to see at night, the new tests could see more licences revoked than ever.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has published its 2023-2024 business plan that plans to review how current sight tests are administered. The current eye test requires motorists to read a number plate from 20 metres away in good daylight. A public consultation found potential challenges to how the eyesight test is performed, including the lack of different light levels.

The DVSA is now engaging with a DVLA Medical Panel to consider a more accurate eyesight test during a driving test which meets the right standards. Currently by law, an examiner is not allowed to check eyesight before sunrise or after sunset – or because of bad weather[2]. In a bid to make the roads safer, the good daylight aspect could soon be scrapped in favour of more reliable tests to make sure motorists’ eyesight is good enough at all times.

Although the new eyesight exam is yet to be confirmed, experts from LeaseCar.uk[3] predict compulsory and regular eyesight tests in dark conditions could be introduced. Many eye conditions affect the ability to see in the dark and fading night vision is particularly common among older drivers. It is already a legal requirement for motorists to declare certain eye conditions or any vision loss to DVLA, and failure to do so could result in a GBP1000 fine and driving ban.

The DVSA hopes the changes coming into place in 2024 will create safer and more sustainable journeys. Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk[4], said: “The skills needed to drive in the dark are different from those needed in daylight, which means more people than ever could see their licences revoked if they fail a potentially new eyesight test. “Although we don’t know exactly what the new rules will be, the DVSA has highlighted the lack of light levels in current eye tests as a problem.

The current eyesight tests only require reading a number plate from 20 metres in good daylight, and it’s not a true reflection of someone’s visibility. “A staggering 17 million drivers in the UK admit to having trouble seeing in the dark, which could be a huge problem if this new eyesight test is introduced. We expect they could also take a toll on the number of eligible elderly drivers, who are more likely to have eye conditions and fading night vision.

“If you notice a change in vision or struggle to drive in the dark, it is important to get checked by a professional and inform the DVLA.”

References

1. ^ LeaseCar.uk (leasecar.uk)
2. ^ weather (www.nottinghampost.com)
3. ^ LeaseCar.uk (leasecar.uk)
4. ^ LeaseCar.uk (leasecar.uk)