Motor Vehicle Drivers
Driving standards change announced - 3 May 2012
On the 1st May 2012, the DVLA quietly introduced some changes to the vision standards for drivers in the UK. The background to the changes goes back to Annex II of a European directive in 1991. This was partially implemented by the UK in the late 90s but left a number of loopholes, particularly around the number plate test. There is now also an Annex III must be implemented by the end of this year
The new standard says that, in addition to the number plate test,
“the visual acuity (with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn) must be at least 6/12 (0.5 decimal) with both eyes open, or in the only eye if monocular”
Furthermore, the visual field requirement, while it remains at 120°, now must be at least 50° either side; and, for group 2 drivers, the acuity requirement has tightened up to 6/7.5 in the better eye. See the full requirements here: http://www.dft.gov.uk/dvla/medical/ataglance.aspx
This suggests that the hard work done by the sector’s driving group, in trying to convince the Department of Health that they should implement the European directive on driving, has paid off. We have argued for years for the introduction of a standard for drivers that is objective and measurable.
The AOP's advice is at the bottom of this page as a pdf
Changes to licence requirements
On 1st January 1999 new arrangements were introduced for the licensing of drivers of vehicles carrying passengers (PCV) or goods (LGV). These new rules require that, in general, drivers of these vehicles must hold a professional driver’s licence, whereas before that date many of these vehicles could be driven on a car licence. The visual standards requirements are now more complex and there are a range of "Grandfather Rights" for drivers whose licenses were issued some time ago. There are therefore many exemptions to the requirements. The AOP have produced an outline of the vision requirements for drivers; please click on the link below.
Optometrists are frequently asked to assess a patient for driving suitability, often by employers. Issuing advice on driving suitability, particularly for employees, can have medico-legal implications and any report should be worded carefully. The AOP has produced a template for use by optometrists which will help ensure this is handled appropriately. The template and instructions for its use can be accessed by clicking on the links below.
The vision of users of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs is becoming of increasing interest, in particular those devices designed for use on the road. There are no licensing, insurance or vision requirements for users of these vehicles as is detailed in our advice document below. Optometrists though may increasingly be asked to advise on the suitability of a mobility scooter user, so in the absence of a regulatory framework and vision standard the Department for Transport have issued guidance which, although intended for users, will offer some guidance to professionals as well. It may be may be accessed at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/mobility-scooters-road-guidance.
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