Thousands of Brits are failing their driving test due to poor eyesight’

Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist (a personal breakdown recovery service) Neil Worth said: “Poor eyesight is linked to nearly 3,000 fatal and serious injury collisions every year.”

At the start of every driving test in the UK, candidates are asked to read out a number plate from 20 metres away, often before they even get in the car. More than 2,800 people have failed to read a number plate 20m (65ft) away during their driving test. It’s the easiest part of a driving test, but if you are struggling to read number plates, whether you’re a learner or an experienced driver, it’s important to see an optician as soon as possible and alert the DVLA of any changes.

Here are our top tips to keep your eyes in top shape for when you’re driving:

• Stay hydrated
• Ensure you get enough sleep
• Take regular breaks
• Always wear any prescription lenses you have
• Have the sun visor down when it’s very bright
• Wear sunglasses on very sunny days. Polarised sunglasses are specially made to reduce both direct and reflective glare.

For more information on how to care for your vision, visit the Feel Good Eyecare Hub.

How many people fail their driving test because of their eyesight?

Here is the full data from the DVSA, in relation to people who have failed their driving test due to eyesight faults. It is worth noting that certain figures have been redacted in the tables. This information was withheld under section 40(2) of the FOIA because it is considered to be personal information that could lead to the identification of an individual.

Affordable prescription glasses

It’s important to have regular eye tests, it’s especially important to ensure you have corrective lenses/glasses before your driving test if required. Feel Good Contacts have a broad range of designer prescription glasses, and more affordable ranges starting from just £6.