Can I get a driver's license if one eye is normal and the other is blind?
3 Answers
You can obtain a driver's license if one eye is blind. Below are the relevant details: 1. According to the vision requirements for applying for a driver's license: If you have monocular vision impairment, and the naked or corrected vision of the other eye reaches 5.0 or above on the logarithmic visual acuity chart, with a horizontal field of vision of 150 degrees, you can apply for a motor vehicle driver's license for small cars, small automatic transmission cars, low-speed trucks, three-wheeled cars, or small automatic transmission passenger cars for the disabled. 2. Eligible vehicle types: To apply for large buses, tractors, city buses, medium buses, large trucks, trolleybuses, or trams, the naked or corrected vision of both eyes must reach 5.0 or above on the logarithmic visual acuity chart. For other vehicle types, the naked or corrected vision of both eyes must reach 4.9 or above on the logarithmic visual acuity chart.
When it comes to getting a driver's license, vision is indeed important, but in principle, it's possible to obtain one if one eye is normal and the other is blind. Having driven for many years, I understand China's driver's license regulations: during the physical examination, both eyes must have a naked or corrected visual acuity of at least 4.9, with normal horizontal field of vision. If your good eye meets the standard, say 5.0, and there are no defects in your field of vision, the doctor will generally pass you. However, be cautious—driving with one eye can create blind spots, so you need to consciously turn your head to scan left and right to avoid missing pedestrians or vehicles. Safety first: if your night vision is weak or your reaction time is slow, it might not be recommended to drive yourself. I suggest going to the local DMV first for a vision assessment and using a simulator to test your reaction time to avoid wasted effort. In real life, many people drive like this, but remember not to drive while fatigued—maintaining a clear field of vision is key. Regulations are being updated to be more inclusive, but if you don’t qualify, it’s best to honestly take public transport. Regular vision checks can also prevent potential hazards.
I know someone like this personally. His left eye is completely blind, but his right eye has 5.2 vision, and he successfully obtained his driver's license last year. During the medical exam, he was worried he wouldn't pass, but the doctor tested his field of vision and approved him since it was fine. When learning to drive, his instructor taught him to turn his head more to check the rearview mirrors, especially when turning to inspect blind spots and avoid accidents. Now, he drives very steadily and has adapted to compensate for his limited vision. This experience made me realize that as long as one eye has good vision and a normal field of view, and it's legally permitted, people can definitely give it a try. After passing the driving test, it's important to stay focused while driving—avoid distractions like using your phone, and use blind-spot mirrors if necessary. Society is progressing, and more people with monocular vision are participating in driving, reflecting inclusivity. I recommend friends with similar conditions to first consult the details at a medical center—don’t be afraid of the challenge. Step by step, you can adapt and succeed.
