How to Remove the Corrective Lenses Restriction From Your New Jersey Driver's License

What you need to do to remove the corrective lenses restriction

To remove the corrective lenses restriction from your New Jersey driver's license, you must pass a vision test without wearing glasses or contacts, then visit a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office to update your license. The restriction — marked as code "13" on your license — means you are legally required to wear corrective lenses whenever you drive. Removing it requires proof that your vision now meets the state standard without correction.

New Jersey does not allow you to remove this restriction by mail or online. You must appear in person at an MVC office with documentation of your current vision test results. The process itself is straightforward, but the vision requirement is strict: you need uncorrected vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, with a combined field of vision of at least 140 degrees.

Key Takeaways

You must pass a vision test showing 20/40 or better uncorrected vision in each eye before the MVC will remove the restriction.
An eye doctor, optometrist, or the MVC itself can perform the vision test — you do not need a specific type of provider.
Bring your current driver's license, the vision test results, and proof of New Jersey residency to your local MVC office.
The MVC will issue you a new license on the spot if you pass the vision test at their office, or within days if you bring outside test results.

Getting a vision test from an eye care provider

Your eye doctor or optometrist can perform the vision test you need. Call ahead and ask them to test your uncorrected vision — specifically, they need to measure how well you see without glasses or contacts. Make sure they document the results clearly, including the vision measurement in each eye separately and your field of vision if they test it.

Ask the provider to give you the results in writing. You will need to bring this paperwork to the MVC. Some offices will mail results directly to the MVC if you ask, but bringing them yourself is faster and ensures nothing gets lost. The test itself is the same one your eye doctor normally performs during a routine exam — there is no special "MVC vision test" form or procedure.

Getting a vision test at an MVC office

You can also have the MVC test your vision directly when you visit to update your license. This is often the fastest route because if you pass, your new license is printed when ready. If you fail, you know right away and can schedule an appointment with an eye doctor without having wasted time getting an outside test first.

Walk into any MVC office and tell the staff you want to have your corrective lenses restriction removed. They will direct you to the vision testing station. The test takes a few minutes. If you pass, proceed to the counter to update your license. If you do not pass, ask what your vision measured and whether the provider recommends you see an eye doctor before trying again.

What to bring to the MVC office

Bring your current New Jersey driver's license, a form of photo identification if your license is expired, and proof of New Jersey residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement. If you had the vision test done outside the MVC, bring those written results as well.

Do not wear your glasses or contacts to the appointment if you plan to take the vision test at the MVC office. If you are bringing outside test results, you do not need to take the test again — the MVC will update your license based on the paperwork you provide. Bring the original results or a certified copy; a photo or email screenshot may not be accepted.

How long the process takes

If you pass the vision test at the MVC office, your new license is printed before you leave — usually within 30 minutes of completing the test. If you bring vision test results from an outside provider, the MVC processes the update the same way, and you receive your new license when ready.

If you need to schedule a separate appointment with an eye doctor first, that typically takes one to two weeks depending on their availability. Once you have the results, you can visit the MVC any business day. There is no waiting period between passing the vision test and having the restriction removed.

What happens if you do not pass the vision test

If your uncorrected vision does not meet the 20/40 standard, the MVC will not remove the restriction. You will need to see an eye doctor to explore whether your vision can be corrected enough to meet the requirement. This might mean a new glasses or contact lens prescription, or it might mean your vision cannot be corrected to that level.

If your vision cannot be corrected to 20/40, you will need to keep the corrective lenses restriction on your license and continue wearing glasses or contacts while driving. Some people in this situation explore whether they may have access to for a restricted license that limits where or when they can drive, but that is a separate process through the MVC's medical review unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove the restriction if I have had eye surgery like LASIK?

Yes, if your uncorrected vision after surgery meets the 20/40 standard. You will need a vision test showing your results without glasses or contacts. Bring the test results to the MVC, and they will update your license. Most people who have LASIK can have the restriction removed, but you must have the vision test done first to confirm.

Do I need a special form from the MVC before I see an eye doctor?

No. Your eye doctor can perform a standard vision test and give you the results. The MVC does not require a specific form or certification — just written documentation of your uncorrected vision in each eye. Call your eye doctor's office ahead of time to make sure they can provide results in writing.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You can still remove the corrective lenses restriction, but you will need to renew your license at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and the vision test results. The MVC will process both the renewal and the restriction removal together, and you will receive a new license valid for your full renewal period.

Can someone else pick up my new license if I cannot go back to the MVC?

No. You must appear in person to have the restriction removed. The MVC requires you to be present for the vision test or to sign off on the removal of the restriction. You cannot authorize someone else to do this on your behalf.

How much does it cost to remove the restriction?

There is no separate fee to remove the restriction. If you take the vision test at the MVC office, there is no charge. If you renew your license at the same time, you pay the standard renewal fee. If your license is not due for renewal, removing the restriction alone does not cost anything.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.