Blurred vision over eyesight rules

70% of motorists surveyed by Venson Automotive Solutions have started wearing glasses or contact lenses since passing their driving test, but have not informed the DVLA. Conflicting advice on the rules could be partly to blame, leading to confusion over what is required or recommended.

Most drivers are aware of the £1,000 fine for failing to update details such as name and address on their driving licence, but there is widespread uncertainty over whether the DVLA needs to be informed when someone has to start wearing glasses or contacts for driving. If the DVLA is informed that a driver requires glasses or contact lenses to drive, an 01 code is added to the list on the reverse of the licence.

Simon Staton, director of client management at Venson Automotive Solutions explains: “Even the Government’s own website on driving eyesight rules is somewhat unclear and confusing. In one place it states that you must inform the DVLA of any problem with your eyesight, but goes on to advise that this does not include being long or short-sighted. High street opticians are also adding to the confusion, first stating that it is not necessary to inform the DVLA, then immediately saying that you must declare it when applying for a licence.”

The legal requirements are in fact quite simple in most cases, but experts recommend employers take further action if their employees are required to drive as part of their job role.