More than 35,000 motorists have been barred from driving over one type of problem.
35,000 stripped of licences over eyesight (Image: Getty)
Thousands of motorists are being stripped of their driving licences every year due to eyesight problems, new figures have revealed. The DVLA has the authority to revoke licences or reject renewal applications if it believes medical conditions could affect someone’s ability to drive safely and put other road users at risk.
Eyesight-related issues are among the most frequent reasons drivers are forced to surrender their licences, with more than 35,000 motorists barred from the roads over the past three years for this reason alone. Data obtained by BirminghamLive showed the agency revoked licences or turned down new applications for “failing to meet the required eyesight standards”. The revelations come as the Government prepares to introduce stricter rules around older drivers and vision requirements, with over-70s potentially facing mandatory sight tests to keep their licences. Common conditions that may trigger action from the DVLA include glaucoma and severe cataracts, both of which must be reported to the agency.
Motorists are legally required to renew their licences when they turn 70, and then every three years afterwards, meaning many of the refused applications are likely linked to safety concerns during the renewal process. Tim Alcock, director at LeaseCar, said: “Drivers have a legal obligation to report certain eye conditions to the DVLA.
“You must report conditions like glaucoma diabetic retinopathy or severe cataracts if they affect both eyes or cause your vision to fall below the minimum legal sight standard. Specifically glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy must be reported so the DVLA can assess your field of vision and stability of sight.
“Failing to report a condition that affects your ability to drive safely can result in a fine of up to £1,000.”
Mr Alcock added: “Reduced daylight hours and often adverse weather conditions already strain our eyes but the modern vehicle lighting environment is making things much harder. The intense blue light emitted by newer LED headlights causes light to scatter more readily in the eye which dramatically increases the sensation of glare and starbursts for many people.
“It is vital that drivers understand how certain existing eye conditions can worsen these issues and take proactive steps to ensure their vision is up to par before heading out into the dark.”
The DVLA’s strict approach to eyesight standards highlights the importance of maintaining proper vision for safe driving. Drivers who fail to notify the agency of relevant conditions face significant penalties, with fines reaching four figures for those who ignore their legal responsibilities. The move towards tougher testing for older motorists reflects growing concerns about road safety as the UK’s driving population ages.
While the exact details of the proposed mandatory vision tests for over-70s have not been finalised, the measures would represent a significant shift in how driver fitness is assessed. The figures underscore the scale of the issue, with thousands of licences affected annually as the DVLA works to keep Britain’s roads safe.
