What is the California DMV’s Vision Screening Standard?

People who are applying for an original or renewal driver’s license in California must meet the Department of Motor Vehicles’ visual acuity standard. The DMV’s vision screening standard is:

20/40 with both eyes tested together

20/40 in the better-seeing eye

20/70 in the poorer-seeing eye

Visual acuity is a driver’s ability to see items clearly and sharply, as well as the ability to recognize small details. If a driver cannot meet the DMV’s vision screening standard, they must possess a minimum visual acuity in at least one eye of better than 20/200, with or without correction. The DMV will not issue a driver’s license to individuals who do not meet the minimum visual acuity standard.

What happens if a driver does not meet the DMV’s vision standard?

If a driver fails to meet the DMV’s vision screening standard, they will be given a Report of Vision Examination (DL 62) form for their eye doctor to complete and sign. Drivers will then have to return to the DMV with the DL 62 form to have their vision retested.

During the vision retesting process, drivers will also perform a driving test to confirm they can safely drive, even with a vision impairment. Passing the driving test establishes that a driver can compensate for any vision loss caused by their vision condition. However, drivers may still have their license restricted. Common license restrictions include:

Restricted to wearing corrective lenses

Restricted to driving during daylight hours

Issuance of license for a shorter term

About the Author: This article is courtesy of Delta Driving School. They are a Driving School in La Canada, Glendale, Eagle Rock and La Crescenta in Southern California.