Experts have issued a stark warning to older motorists: if you cannot read a number plate from 20 metres away, you should not be driving. The Older Drivers Forum, a road safety organisation, stressed that good eyesight is a legal requirement for driving in the UK.
The 20-Metre Number Plate Test
The standard eyesight test for drivers is the ability to read a car number plate from a distance of 20 metres (65 feet 8 inches), with glasses or contact lenses if needed. The Older Drivers Forum stated: "To drive you need to be able to see properly. The standard test of eyesight is that you must be able to read a car number plate from 20m (65’8”), with your glasses or contact lenses if you use them. If you cannot do this then you should not be driving, and could be prosecuted."
Drivers who are unsure about their vision are urged to visit an optician or optometrist for a professional assessment. Those who require glasses or contact lenses to meet the minimum standards must wear them every time they drive.
Minimum Vision Standards and Field of Vision
Beyond the number plate test, drivers must also have an adequate field of vision. The Forum added: "You must also have an adequate field of vision and meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving by having a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen scale (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) using both eyes together or, if you have sight in one eye only, in that eye – your optician can tell you about this and do a test."
Government Consultation on Mandatory Eyesight Tests
The Department for Transport (DfT) has been consulting on new plans to introduce mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers. The proposed rule would require everyone over the age of 70 to have their eyesight checked every three years to remain legally allowed to drive.
The consultation ended in May 2026, and officials are now reviewing responses from stakeholders before deciding on future policies. The DfT said: "Road safety is fundamental to everything this government stands for. Safer roads underpin our national missions — driving economic growth, enabling greener journeys through active travel, easing pressure on the NHS and ensuring that everyone can travel safely."
Impact on Older Drivers
According to the Older Drivers Forum, many older drivers may be unaware that their eyesight has deteriorated to a dangerous level. The Forum's advice is clear: anyone who fails the simple number plate test should voluntarily stop driving and seek professional help. Failure to meet the legal eyesight standards can lead to prosecution and increased risk of accidents.
The DfT's consultation reflects growing concerns about road safety among ageing populations. With more drivers over 70 on the roads, mandatory testing could reduce collisions caused by poor vision.
