The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has revoked the driving licences of tens of thousands of motorists in recent years over concerns about their vision, new data reveals.
Thousands Barred from Driving
Figures obtained by BirminghamLive show that more than 35,000 drivers have been barred from driving over the last three years because they failed to meet the legal eyesight requirements. The agency confirmed it has either revoked existing licences or refused new applications where individuals did not meet the mandatory standards for safe driving.
This crackdown comes as the Government considers stricter rules for older motorists. Drivers are legally required to renew their licence when they turn 70 and then every three years thereafter. It is likely that a significant number of these refusals occurred during the renewal process when safety concerns were identified.
Conditions You Must Declare
Motorists have a legal duty to inform the DVLA about specific medical conditions that could impair their ability to drive safely. Common eyesight-related issues that must be reported include:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Severe cataracts (if affecting both eyes or causing vision to fall below the legal standard)
Tim Alcock, a director at LeaseCar, emphasised the seriousness of the rules. "Drivers have a legal obligation to report certain eye conditions to the DVLA," he stated. "Failing to report a condition that affects your ability to drive safely can result in a fine of up to £1,000." For conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, the DVLA needs to assess the driver's field of vision and the stability of their sight.
The Challenge of Modern Roads
Alcock also highlighted how modern driving conditions are exacerbating vision problems for some. "Reduced daylight hours and often adverse weather conditions already strain our eyes, but the modern vehicle lighting environment is making things much harder," he explained.
"The intense blue light emitted by newer LED headlights causes light to scatter more readily in the eye, which dramatically increases the sensation of glare and starbursts for many people." This makes it even more critical for drivers with existing conditions to ensure their vision is adequate, especially for night driving.
With the potential introduction of mandatory vision tests for drivers over 70, the focus on eye health and road safety is set to intensify. All motorists are urged to proactively manage their eye health and fulfil their legal reporting duties to the DVLA.
