DVLA agrees Snellen standard for drivers

A visual acuity standard for car and motorcycle drivers has been adopted by the government's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) after years of campaigning by the profession.

Some practitioners were sent a letter by the DVLA last week saying that, as of May 1, 'Group 1 applicants and licence holders will need to have VA of 6/12 as well as being able to read the number plate test'. The DVLA's guidance for medical practitioners has also been revised to include a Snellen requirement.

However, a DVLA spokesperson said reaching this level would not actually form part of the driving test.