Drivers and riders are being encouraged to take the ‘number plate test’ – a quick and easy way to check they meet the minimum eyesight requirements.
By law, all drivers and riders must meet the minimum eyesight standards at all times and this includes being able to read a number plate from 20 metres.
The campaign is reminding the public that they can easily check their eyesight by taking the 20 metres test and is pointing out some ways to quickly identify 20 metres at the roadside. It is advising that 5 car lengths or 8 parking bays can be an easy way to measure the distance. The campaign is encouraging anyone with concerns about their eyesight to visit their optician or optometrist for an eye test. | Eyesight can naturally deteriorate over time so anyone concerned about their eyesight should visit their optician and don’t wait for your next check-up. Twenty metres is around 26 steps for a man and around 33 for a woman. The minimum eyesight standards for driving are published on GOV.UK. |
Dr Wyn Parry, DVLA’s Senior Doctor, said, “The number plate test is a simple and effective way for people to check their eyesight meets the required standards for driving.
“The easiest and quickest way to do this is to work out what 20 metres looks like at the roadside – this is typically about the length of 5 cars parked next to each other – and then test yourself on whether you can clearly read the number plate.”