View from GOC: Vision standards for driving

Vision standards for driving have become an increasingly controversial subject in recent years. Tragic news stories involving drivers with impaired or inadequate vision has brought into consideration the complexity of the role of eye care professionals.

While they can advise patients of their legal responsibility to notify the DVLA/DVA they cannot compel them to do so, nor do they have a legal obligation to inform the DVLA/DVA themselves. However, where there is a public interest they can raise concerns directly with the DVLA/DVA themselves. The GOC Standards make clear that practitioners should promptly raise concerns about their patients if in their professional judgement, patient or public safety might be at risk. This responsibility is also detailed in guidance from the Department of Health.