Safer roads are in sight

DVLA driving standards state that all drivers must be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away, additionally drivers must meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving.

• Minimum visual acuity for car and van drivers: 0.5 (6/12) on the Snellen scale

All driver’s must meet this standard of eye health and if required, should wear glasses or contact lenses at all times when driving. As well as being a danger to themselves and other road users, drivers who require corrective lenses could be fined up to £1000 and face penalty points if they are found to be driving without.

The NHS recommends having an eye test every two years. However, it’s important to schedule an appointment sooner if you notice any changes in your vision or experience symptoms like frequent headaches, as these could indicate vision problems.

Eye health can change with age, increasing the risk of developing conditions that impair vision. Since our UK launch in 2020, Athlon has offered free annual eye tests to all our UK colleagues. This initiative ensures their safety and wellbeing both at work and beyond, reflecting our commitment to promoting safer and more responsible driving.