General
You can check the A-Z DVLA list for all driving-related conditions here: A-Z List.
For conditions related specifically to eye and vision, click here: Eye and Vision Conditions.
Vision
The vision assessment is on page 2 of the DVLA D4 form. We can complete this at your appointment, or an optician can do it for you (at an additional cost).
The vision standards for bus/lorry drivers are stricter than those for car drivers. You can find the standards for both here: Driving Eyesight Rules.
I Don’t Currently Wear Glasses
If you can’t read a car number plate from 20 meters, you should see an optician for an eye test, as bus/lorry standards are even stricter.
Bus/lorry drivers also need good peripheral vision (seeing up, down, left, and right), which only an optician can fully assess.
We recommend getting an eye test every two years to check for conditions like glaucoma and ensure your vision meets the required standards. You might be eligible for a free eye test: Free NHS Eye Tests.
I Do Wear Glasses
As we age, our vision changes, and many of us need glasses. Keep in mind that both eyes may change at different rates, so each eye might need a different lens.
I Have Bought Some Glasses from a Kiosk or Shop
If you’ve bought reading glasses from a shop or kiosk, it’s a sign your vision has changed, and you should get an eye test from an optician. These reading glasses won’t improve your vision for the 3-meter distance required in the bus/lorry test.
I have Glasses from an Optician
If you already have glasses, check the date of your last eye test, as most prescriptions only last two years. Look at your optical prescription—find the “Near-ADD” or “Inter-ADD” column. To hold a bus/lorry license, this number must be +8 or lower.
I Wear Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses, you must have had an eye test in the last two years to keep receiving them. Bring your prescription paperwork to your appointment with us.
Unlike glasses, there is no strength limit on contact lens prescriptions (glasses are limited to +8).
Can I Drive with Double Vision?
If you have double vision (diplopia), you must report it to the DVLA. Use form V1: V1 Form.
Double vision can have many causes—temporary, intermittent, or permanent. It must be diagnosed by a specialist, not a GP. Your GP will refer you to a specialist if needed.
If double vision is confirmed, and it hasn’t resolved on its own, a fabric patch or frosted lens can sometimes block out the double image. Your specialist must report this to the DVLA, and they will decide if you can drive. Licenses are usually revoked for insuperable diplopia. You cannot pass the D4 medical until your double vision is treated effectively.
Driving with Blepharospasm
What is Blepharospasm?
It’s involuntary or uncontrollable blinking that can make it difficult to see properly. A specialist (like an ophthalmologist or neurologist) must diagnose it—your GP cannot.
Botox injections can help manage this condition. If it’s mild and responds to treatment, the DVLA may still grant you a license. If you haven’t had it diagnosed, you won’t pass the D4 medical. See your GP to get a referral to a specialist.
Can I Drive with Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is rare under 40 but affects 1 in 50 people by age 40 and 1 in 10 by age 75. It’s a leading cause of blindness in people over 60. Opticians check for glaucoma during eye exams, another reason to have an eye test every two years.
If you have glaucoma, your specialist will report it to the DVLA. You’ll need visual field tests to check if your peripheral vision meets the standards. If it does, the DVLA may grant your license but will require regular reviews.
Driving With Night Blindness (Nyctalopia)
Night blindness (Nyctalopia) makes it hard to see in dim light or adjust from bright light to darkness. The cause of these symptoms needs to be established—some causes are serious, while others are treatable.
The DVLA reviews these cases individually, based on information from your specialist, as long as you meet the vision and peripheral vision standards.
Eye Conditions Which I Must Tell the DVLA About
You must report the following eye conditions to the DVLA:
- Blepharospasm
- Diabetic retinopathy (if laser treatment is needed)
- Double vision (diplopia)
- Glaucoma
- Night blindness (nyctalopia)
- Retinitis Pigmentosa
Use Form V1 to inform the DVLA, and they will guide you on what to do next.