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Michigan Bioptic Telescopic Lens License: 20/50 and Training

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Michigan issues a restricted driver’s license for bioptic or telescopic lens (BTL) use. Under the state’s visual standards rule (Mich. Admin. Code R 257.3, as amended in a rule set filed on May 12, 2025), you need at least 20/50 visual acuity in one eye and must complete behind-the-wheel training in using the bioptic with a qualified professional. You then take a road test with a Michigan Department of State Driver Assessment analyst. Every BTL driver must send an updated Vision Specialist’s Statement of Examination every year.

This page explains the Secretary of State’s licensing rules. Your eye specialist or low-vision clinic can advise on your own vision and whether a bioptic suits you.

Michigan BTL requirements at a glance

Requirement Rule
Visual acuity Not less than 20/50 in one eye, under the BTL provision of R 257.3
Training Satisfactory behind-the-wheel training in using bioptic or telescopic lenses, from a qualified individual specified by the department
Who can train you A Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS), an occupational therapist or certified driving instructor, or another equivalent certified professional
Road test A road test with a Driver Assessment analyst after a favorable evaluation
Ongoing An updated Vision Specialist’s Statement of Examination every year
Extra conditions The rule allows a restricted license to carry additional conditions and requirements

Step by step: the Michigan BTL route

  1. Eye exam. Your vision specialist confirms your acuity and completes the Secretary of State’s vision statement.
  2. Driver Assessment review. The Michigan Department of State’s Driver Assessment section decides whether you are eligible for the BTL route.
  3. Training with a BTL. Train with a CDRS, an OT or certified driving instructor, or an equivalent certified professional.
  4. Restricted driving during training. Until you pass the road test, you may only drive with your CDRS, OT/CDI or equivalent.
  5. Road test. If the evaluation is favorable, a Driver Assessment analyst gives you a road test using the BTL. Passing removes the requirement to drive only with the trainer.
  6. Annual vision statement. Send an updated Vision Specialist’s Statement of Examination every year to keep the license.

Teen learners still follow Michigan’s graduated licensing steps, including Segment 1 and Segment 2 driver education. See Michigan graduated licensing levels 1, 2 and 3.

Daylight, freeway and other limits

Michigan’s rule lets the department add conditions to a BTL restricted license. Some summaries describe daylight-only and no-freeway limits for at least the first year, with a petition to lift them later. Check the current restrictions with the Driver Assessment section before you plan your driving.

How BTL fits with Michigan’s other vision rules

  • Daylight-only license: separate from the BTL route. It is available for lower acuity bands on a statement from an eye doctor: less than 20/50 to 20/70 with no recognizable progressive abnormality, or less than 20/50 to 20/60 with one.
  • Denial: R 257.4 lists vision levels at which a license is denied or suspended, including 20/100 or less in one eye with less than 20/50 in the other.

Michigan vision screening in general is covered in driver’s license vision rules in the Midwest.

Common questions

Was the 2023 draft rule made final?

The visual standards rule set (JCAR 2023-055) was filed with the Secretary of State on May 12, 2025, amending R 257.3 and R 257.4. Check the current Michigan Administrative Code text before relying on any figure.

Is there a limit on telescope power?

Ask Driver Assessment and your low-vision specialist.

Can I train with my parent?

Not for the BTL training. The rule requires a qualified professional, and until you pass the BTL road test you may only drive with your CDRS, OT/CDI or equivalent.

Related guides

Want to practise the eyesight check? Our sister site Driving Eyesight Test has a free US letter chart on drivingeyesighttest.com. It is a practice screen, not an eye test.

Sources

  • Michigan Department of State, “Driver assessment” (michigan.gov)
  • Michigan Department of State, Visual Standards for Motor Vehicle Drivers’ Licenses, R 257.3 and R 257.4, final rule filed May 12, 2025 (ars.apps.lara.state.mi.us)
  • Michigan Legislature, Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, rule set 2023-055 ST, Visual Standards (legislature.mi.gov)

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