Vision loss and driving

Good vision is essential when it comes to driving safely. Your vision is important for seeing and responding to your surroundings, which can include other vehicles, pedestrians, road markings, signage, and hazards. If you’re experiencing vision loss, this may reduce your ability to drive safely.

How does vision loss affect driving?

Loss of visual acuity (your ability to see at different distances) or loss of visual field (your ability to see in your side vision) can affect your ability to drive safely.

Certain eye conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and cataracts can cause significant vision loss. Some of the symptoms of these eye conditions can make it more difficult to drive.

For example, individuals with glaucoma may experience blind spots in their peripheral vision which can reduce their ability to see vehicles or pedestrians.

With other eye conditions, like AMD, a loss of central vision might make it harder to see vehicles, signage or hazards in front of you.

What are the eyesight standards for driving in Australia?

To be able to hold a valid license in Australia, your visual acuity must meet the standard of 6/12 or better. Additionally, your visual field must reach at least 110 degrees horizontally and 10 degrees above and below the horizontal midline.

In Australia, you are required to have an eyesight test when applying for your license. You can read more here. You also must pass an eyesight test every ten years if you’re under the age of 45, every five years once you turn 45 and every year once you turn 75.

If you’ve been diagnosed with an eye condition or are experiencing vision loss you are required to report it to your local Licensing Authority.

Changes in your vision may happen gradually, so it is important to have regular eye examinations to detect any potential eye conditions early. See here for more information on eye tests.

What is a conditional license?

In some cases you may be able to hold a conditional license if your vision can meet the standard with glasses or contact lenses. A conditional license allows people with a medical condition to drive in conditions that suit their capability. For example, if you experience night blindness, you may be eligible for a conditional license that prevents you from driving in the dark.

Some discretion is allowed in application of the standards by the treating optometrist or ophthalmologist. However, a driver’s license will not be issued when visual acuity in the better eye is worse than 6/24.

What are some alternative transportation options?

Losing your driver’s license due to vision loss can be upsetting and it is normal to feel a loss of independence at first. However, there are other transport options available to you. Take a look at our tips and strategies for using public transport with confidence when you have low vision.

You may also be able to access community transport or on demand transport in your local area, which can help you to do everyday tasks like visiting family and friends, going shopping, or attending medical appointments.