The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has radically reduced its list of notifiable eye conditions for motorists as part of maintaining their driving licence.
The changes come after optical sector stakeholders raised serious concerns with the DVLA last year over the “extensive and confusing list” (Dispensing Optics November 2022).
The extended list, published at the start of 2022 without prior consultation with the optical bodies, contained such common eye conditions that it would have required almost every driver who received a sight test to notify the DVLA.
After optical body members raised their concerns, the College of Optometrists and Association of Optometrists (AOP) contacted the DVLA – with the College pointing out “several technical errors” within the list.
The College stated the guidance included “common ocular signs and conditions, which would have resulted in many drivers with otherwise normal eye health and good levels of vision making DVLA declarations”. These included blurred vision, drusen and cupped optic disc. The DVLA then withdrew the list and published an edited version, while the AOP continued to work with it on a revised list.
Adam Sampson, AOP chief executive, said: “The original list of conditions would have almost certainly applied to most, if not all, drivers. We’re pleased to see that the DVLA have listened and acted on our advice and have now published a much-reduced list – which will also be a relief to many drivers on UK roads, who faced the threat of a £1,000 fine.”
Dr Peter Hampson, AOP clinical and professional director, said: “Throughout this process, we’ve welcomed the opportunity to work with the DVLA and maintain open and effective dialogue on an issue that is important to so many people. We look forward to working with the DVLA in the future to continue to find practical solutions where needed for drivers, our members and the DVLA.”