Vision tests and medical fitness

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain what happens at the vision test.
• You can say when you must wear glasses or contact lenses to drive.
• You can list health problems that could affect your driving.
• You can describe how a province may review a driver's medical fitness.

What you need to know and understand

• You must pass a vision test before you get a learner's licence in every province.
• If you need glasses or contacts to pass, you must wear them every time you drive, including during your road test. Your licence will show this condition.
• Ontario sets minimum standards for both how sharply you see (visual acuity) and how wide your side vision is (field of vision).
• In Ontario, doctors and optometrists must by law report anyone over 16 who has a condition that may make it unsafe for them to drive.
• BC requires a Driver's Medical Examination Report at age 80, at 85, and every two years after that.
• In Ontario, drivers aged 80 and over renew every two years, with a vision test and a short screening exercise.
• A medical review is not the same as losing your licence. You may be asked for more information or a driving assessment.

What the eye test checks

At the licensing office, you look into a machine or at a chart and read letters or shapes. The test checks how sharp your vision is and how wide your side vision is. If you struggle, you may be asked to see an optometrist and bring back a vision report.

Conditions that can affect driving

Some conditions can make you lose control suddenly or reduce your judgement. Talk honestly with your doctor if any of these apply to you.

• Seizures or fainting spells
• Diabetes that causes low blood sugar episodes
• Heart conditions that cause dizziness
• Changes in eyesight, including night vision
• Memory or thinking problems
• Medicines or substances that cause drowsiness

What to do and what not to do

• Do keep your glasses in the car and wear them if your licence requires them.
• Do tell your doctor about new symptoms such as dizziness or blackouts.
• Do read medicine labels for warnings about drowsiness.
• Do not drive if you feel unwell, very tired or dizzy.
• Do not ignore a letter from your licensing office asking for medical information. Not replying can lead to a suspension.

Common mistakes

• Leaving your glasses at home when your licence says you must wear them.
• Driving after taking a medicine that warns about drowsiness.
• Ignoring gradual changes in vision, especially at night.
• Hiding a medical condition rather than getting advice on whether it is safe to drive.

Test yourself: Vision tests and medical fitness

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• RoadSafetyBC Medical Fitness