What do you need to pass the vision test?

At the beginning of the test, you’ll look into a machine that measures your field of vision so the examiner can determine if you meet state minimums. It’s similar to any test you take at an optometrist’s office where you read letters and/or numbers until you get to a line that’s too small to decipher. You can also get the eye test performed by your own licensed doctor.

What line on the eye chart is 20/40?

The most common visual standard that drivers need to meet to drive without restrictions is 20/40 or better in one eye. If you have 20/40 vision, you can read the same letter chart standing 20 feet away that a person with 20/20 vision would be able to read when standing 40 feet away. It’s important to make sure to wear your contacts or glasses during the exam unless otherwise told.

How can I check my eyesight at home?

You can easily <a href="https://www.nvisioncenters.com/education/visual-acuity-and-testing/" target="_blank">check your eyesight at home by printing off an eye chart</a> and hanging it on a wall. Make sure to stand 20 feet away, then cover one eye and see how far down the chart you can read. You’ll need a buddy to make sure you’re reading the letters and/or numbers accurately. Cover your other eye and repeat. You can take a number of other tests, including the <a href="https://www.correctiveeye.com/amsler-grid/" target="_blank">Amsler Grid test</a> and the <a href="https://www.correctiveeye.com/color-vision-test/" target="_blank">color vision test</a> to determine whether you have color blindness and any retina damage. At-home tests can help you determine if you should consult a doctor before taking an official vision test.

Life On the Road With Visual Impairments

Name: Life On the Road With Visual Impairments
Item: Life On the Road With Visual Impairments
Author: Christopher Murray

ByChristopher Murray

Contributions by3 experts

ByChristopher Murray

Contributions by3 experts

Updated: March 1, 2024

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About Christopher Murray

Christopher Murray is a professional personal finance and sustainability writer who enjoys writing about everything from budgeting to unique investing options like SRI and cryptocurrency. He also focuses on how sustainability is the best savings tool around. He has a bachelor's degree in both English literature and gender studies. You can find his work on sites like MoneyGeek, Money Under 30 and ChooseFI.

sources

AMA Journal of Ethics. "Legal Vision Requirements for Drivers in the United States." Accessed May 14, 2021.
American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki. "Driving Restrictions per State." Accessed May 14, 2021.
American Optometric Association. "Visual Acuity." Accessed May 23, 2021.
Commonwealth Eye Surgery. "20/20 Vision. 20/10 Vision. 20/40 Vision. What do all these numbers ACTUALLY mean?." Accessed May 15, 2021.
Corrective Eye Center. "Color Vision Test." Accessed May 14, 2021.
Department of Motor Vehicles. "Vision Screening." Accessed May 14, 2021.
Mayo Clinic. "LASIK eye surgery." Accessed May 15, 2021.
NVISION. "Vision Acuity: Testing (From Home) Definition & More." Accessed May 16, 2021.
Prevent Blindness. "State Vision Screening and Standards for License to Drive." Accessed May 23, 2021.