What is the minimum vision requirement for obtaining a driver's license?
3 Answers
Vision requirements for the driver's license medical examination: For applicants of large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized 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 types of driving licenses, the naked or corrected vision of both eyes must reach 4.9 or above on the logarithmic visual acuity chart. Solutions for failing the vision test: Wearing glasses: You can retake the medical examination with properly prescribed glasses, as the driver's license medical examination allows corrected vision and does not require naked vision. Corrected vision: The vision requirement for the driver's license test in China is based on corrected vision, not naked vision. Therefore, when applying for a driver's license, it is advisable to promptly visit a professional ophthalmology hospital for a corrected vision examination. Retaking the medical examination at a hospital: If you fail the vision test at the driving school, you can also take the test at a hospital. Generally, the vehicle management office will designate several local hospitals for the examination. If you pass the examination, you can bring the medical examination form and relevant payment receipts back to the driving school.
I remember when I was learning to drive, the vision requirements during the physical exam were quite strict. You had to achieve at least 0.8 after correction to pass. This means if you wear glasses or contact lenses to read the eye chart, as long as you can clearly see the E-shape on that line, you qualify. Don't worry too much about the specific diopter, as degrees of myopia vary from person to person. The key is that your corrected vision must meet the standard, otherwise, you might have trouble seeing road signs or pedestrians while driving, which could lead to accidents. I had a friend with around -4.00 diopters, but with new glasses, their vision test was exactly 0.8, and they passed easily. Another person was just 0.7 points short and had to get new glasses before passing. In short, it's safest to get an eye exam before learning to drive—don't take it lightly. Some regions might be slightly more lenient, but this is the general standard nationwide, with safety being the top priority.
After years of driving, I've learned from experience that substandard vision is definitely dangerous. The mandatory physical exam for obtaining a driver's license requires corrected visual acuity of at least 0.8, which doesn't refer to the degree of prescription but is confirmed through an eye chart test. The test is simple: stand there and indicate the direction of small E letters while wearing your regular glasses. If you don't pass initially, you can make corrections on the spot. I've seen many young people with prescriptions as high as -6.00 pass because their vision was properly corrected. The key is not to let poor uncorrected vision affect driving, especially during rainy nights. Remember to pay attention to this aspect when learning to drive, and don't just focus on skills while neglecting the basics. Regular eye check-ups are also necessary to avoid sudden issues disrupting your trips.
