About the eyesight test

The eyesight test aims to make sure that you can see well enough to drive. It will pick up a blurry or ‘lazy eye’, or poor side vision.

The eye test isn’t as comprehensive as what you might receive from an optometrist; you’ll simply be asked to look into the testing station – read a particular row of text and identify when you see lights flashing in your peripheral vision – it generally only takes a few minutes to complete.

Who is the eyesight test for?

Your eyesight will be checked by a driver licensing agent:

To make this easy, our AA Licensing Agents have the equipment to give you a basic eyesight test provided you have vision in both eyes. If you wear glasses or contact lenses when driving, you can wear them for the restricted licence test and your driver licence will show you need them to drive.

What happens if my eyesight doesn’t pass the eyesight test?

Almost 97% of people pass the eyesight test. If you don’t pass, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a problem with your eyes. It just means you’ll have to get an eyesight certificate from your doctor or optometrist.

If you need an eyesight certificate, you will need to make an appointment to visit a certified medical professional or optometrist.

For more information please read about vision and driving.