Vision requirements for a driver's license vary by state, but most require you to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without correction

Every state sets its own vision standard for driving, and most use 20/40 as the minimum — meaning you can read at 20 feet what a person with typical vision reads at 40 feet. Some states are stricter and require 20/30 or better. The key word is "with or without correction," which means glasses or contact lenses count. If you cannot meet the standard even with correction, you may still be able to drive with restrictions, or you may be denied a license until your vision improves.

The vision test itself is usually quick — you look into a machine called a vision screener at the DMV, read letters or numbers on a chart, and the examiner records what you see. If you fail, you typically get a chance to retake it, sometimes after a waiting period. Some states also test your peripheral vision (what you see to the sides without moving your eyes) and your ability to see in color, though these are less common.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require 20/40 vision or better in each eye, measured with glasses or contacts if you need them.
  • You will take a vision test at the DMV using a machine that shows letters or numbers at different sizes.
  • If you fail, you can usually retake the test after waiting a set number of days, which varies by state.
  • Some states restrict your license if your vision is below the standard but above a lower threshold, requiring you to wear glasses while driving.
  • Eye conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration may require a doctor's letter confirming you can drive safely.

How the 20/40 standard works and what it means for you

The fraction 20/40 is a measurement of visual acuity — how clearly you see. The first number (20) is the distance in feet at which you stand from the chart. The second number (40) is the distance at which a person with typical vision would need to stand to see the same line of letters clearly. So if your vision is 20/40, you are seeing at 20 feet what someone with "normal" vision sees at 40 feet. You are seeing less detail, but you can still see well enough to read road signs and spot hazards.

If your vision is 20/60 or worse, you fall below the legal minimum in most states. However, some states have a second threshold — for example, 20/70 — below which you cannot drive at all, even with correction. Between the two thresholds, you may be issued a restricted license that requires you to wear corrective lenses while driving, or limits you to daytime driving only.

What happens if you wear glasses or contacts

Corrected vision counts toward meeting the standard. This means if you see 20/60 without glasses but 20/30 with them, you meet the requirement. When you take the vision test at the DMV, tell the examiner if you normally wear glasses or contacts — they will test you with them on. Your license will then carry a restriction code (often printed as "corrective lenses required") that means you must wear them every time you drive.

If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, some states test you specifically for your ability to see the road clearly through the lower portion of the lens, since that is where you focus while driving. If you wear contact lenses, bring a spare pair or glasses to the DMV in case you need to retake the test. Some examiners will not retest you without correction if your first attempt failed.

Failing the vision test and what to do next

If you fail the vision test at the DMV, you will not be issued a license that day. Most states allow you to retake the test when ready or after a waiting period — typically 24 hours to one week, depending on the state. Check your state's DMV website for the exact waiting period and whether you need to pay a retest fee.

Before you retake the test, see an eye doctor. If you do not wear glasses or contacts, an exam may reveal that correction would help you pass. If you already wear them, your prescription may be outdated. An eye doctor can also identify conditions like cataracts or astigmatism that might be correctable. Bring your eye doctor's report to the DMV if you retake the test — it shows the examiner that you have addressed the problem.

Restrictions and conditional licenses for vision below the standard

If your vision is below the state minimum but above a lower threshold, you may be issued a conditional license or restricted license. Common restrictions include wearing corrective lenses at all times, driving only during daylight hours, or driving only on familiar routes. The restriction is printed on your license and is legally binding — driving without following it can result in a ticket.

Some states require you to renew your license more frequently if you have a vision restriction — for example, every two years instead of every five. This gives the DMV a chance to retest you and see whether your vision has improved or declined. If your vision gets worse over time, your license may be suspended until you can demonstrate that you still meet the standard.

Medical conditions that may affect your license

Certain eye conditions can make you ineligible to drive even if your acuity number meets the standard. These include advanced glaucoma, severe diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration — conditions that affect your peripheral vision or your ability to see clearly in the center of your visual field. If you have one of these conditions, your eye doctor may need to send a report to your state's DMV medical review board.

If you have been diagnosed with a condition that affects your vision, do not wait for the DMV to contact you. Call your state's DMV medical unit and ask whether you need to report it. Some states require you to report it; others do not. Reporting it yourself is usually better than having your license suspended without warning. Your eye doctor can also advise you on whether driving is safe for you, and many will write a letter to the DMV on your behalf if you ask.

Vision testing requirements at license renewal

When you renew your driver's license, you will take another vision test. The standard remains the same — 20/40 or better in most states — but your vision may have changed since your last test. If you have had cataract surgery, LASIK, or a change in your prescription, your vision may be better. If you have developed an eye condition or your prescription has worsened, it may be worse.

Bring your current glasses or contacts to your license renewal appointment. If your vision has declined and you no longer meet the standard, you will be given the chance to retake the test or to see an eye doctor and come back. Some states will issue you a temporary license while you get an eye exam, so you can drive legally until your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive if my vision is 20/50?

In most states, no — 20/50 is below the 20/40 minimum. However, some states have a second threshold (like 20/70) below which you cannot drive at all. Between the two, you may get a restricted license requiring glasses. Check your state's DMV website for the exact thresholds.

Do I have to report an eye condition to the DMV?

It depends on your state and the condition. Some states require you to report conditions like glaucoma or retinal disease; others do not. Call your state's DMV medical review unit and describe your condition. It is safer to report it yourself than to have your license suspended without warning.

What if I fail the vision test but my eye doctor says I can drive safely?

The DMV standard is separate from your doctor's opinion. You must meet the DMV's acuity number to get a license. If you do not, ask your eye doctor whether your prescription can be adjusted or whether a medical condition is affecting your vision. If your vision improves, you can retake the test.

Does color blindness affect my ability to get a driver's license?

Most states do not test for color blindness as part of the standard vision screening. However, if you have severe color blindness that prevents you from seeing traffic lights, some states may restrict your license or require you to take an additional test. This is rare and varies by state.

How often do I need to retake the vision test?

You take a vision test every time you renew your license. Renewal periods vary by state — typically every four to eight years. If you have a vision restriction or a medical condition, your state may require more frequent renewals, sometimes every two years.