VDU/DVLA Tests

What is the DVLA test?

The DVLA test is the standard at which you need to be able to see a vehicle number plate (made after 1 September 2001) at a distance of 20 meters with or without glasses/contact lenses. The DVLA also states you must meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving by having a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen Scale. Again this can be with or without glasses/contact lenses and using both eyes or just one if you only have sight in one eye.

Do you need one?

For most people this is part of your standard eye test however is you are a Lorry or Bus driver the test is slightly different.

HGV Eye test and the DVLA standard for Lorry and Bus drivers?

The DVLA standard to have a visual acuity at least 0.8 (6/7.5) measured on the Snellen scale in your best eye and at least 0.1 (6/60) on the Snellen scale in the other eye.

You can reach this standard using glasses with a corrective power not more than (+) 8 dioptres, or with contact lenses. There's no specific limit for the corrective power of contact lenses.

You must have a horizontal visual field of at least 160 degrees, the extension should be at least 70 degrees left and right and 30 degrees up and down. No defects should be present within a radius of the central 30 degrees.

You must tell the DVLA if you've got any problem with your eyesight that affects either eye.

You may still be able to renew your lorry or bus licence if you can't meet these standards but held your licence before 1 January 1997.