The DVLA is launching an all-new national eyesight awareness campaign.
It is aiming to educate drivers about the basic eyesight requirements needed before getting behind the wheel as there is an apparent lack of knowledge.
Drivers are being required to take the ‘number plate test’ which is a quick way for motorists can check how their eyesight performs.
By law, motorists are required to meet the minimum eyesight standard at all times when driving.
One of these requirements is the ability to read a number plate from 20 metres away.
It is urging drivers to take this test and is offering drivers a quick method to be able to judge that distance.
It is advising that five car lengths or eight parking bays can be an easy way to measure the distance.
The campaign is encouraging anyone with concerns about their eyesight to visit their optician or optometrist for an eye test.
Dr Wyn Parry, DVLA’s Senior Doctor, said: “The number plate test is a simple and effective way for people to check their eyesight meets the required standards for driving.
“The easiest and quickest way to do this is to work out what 20 metres looks like at the roadside – this is typically about the length of 5 cars parked next to each other – and then test yourself on whether you can clearly read the number plate.
“It’s an easy check to perform any time of day at the roadside and takes just a couple of seconds.“Having good eyesight is essential for safe driving, so it’s really important for drivers to have regular eye tests.
“Eyesight can naturally deteriorate over time so anyone concerned about their eyesight should visit their optician – don’t wait for your next check-up”.
It found that just under 50 per cent of drivers surveyed by DVLA knew that 20 metres is the correct distance that a driver should be able to read a car number plate from.
Around 50 percent of the drivers surveyed said they had used this to self-check that they meet the standards of vision for driving.
You must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive if you need them to meet the ‘standards of vision for driving’.
You could be prosecuted if you drive without meeting the standards of vision for driving.