UK motorists could face a £1,000 fine if they neglect to inform the DVLA about certain eye conditions. Official guidelines state that drivers who have an undisclosed eye condition and subsequently have an accident as a result could be hit with this significant penalty.
The DVLA must be informed of any condition affecting both eyes or the remaining eye if you only have vision in one. Moreover, if a GP, optician, or eye specialist has indicated that you do not meet the visual standards for driving, the DVLA should be notified.
Legal requirements for driving include being able to read a number plate from 20 metres away, not having double vision, and maintaining a normal field of vision in at least one eye, which can be confirmed by an optician. It’s vital to report any eye conditions that could affect your driving to the DVLA.
Eye conditions that may affect your driving
- nyctalopia (night blindness)
- diabetic retinopathy (with laser treatment)
- retinitis pigmentosa
- glaucoma
- blepharospasm
- diplopia (double vision)
The above conditions apply primarily to car or motorcycle licence holders. For those holding a bus, coach, or lorry licence, there are additional conditions that need to be reported:
- Macular degeneration
- Monocular vision
- Loss of an eye
- Visual field defects
- Cataracts (if you have an increased sensitivity to glare)
You can report any eye condition that may affect your driving by completing a V1 form and sending it to the DVLA. Alternatively, you can make a report or find the relevant form online.
For those who drive buses, coaches, or lorries, the requirement is to complete a V1V form. This form can be found and printed from the GOV.UK website here.