What Missouri requires for the eye test during renewal

Missouri requires you to pass an eye test every time you renew your driver's license. The test measures your visual acuity and checks for color blindness and peripheral vision problems. You cannot renew by mail or online in Missouri — you must appear in person at a Missouri Department of Revenue office to take the test.

The eye test is administered by DMV staff at the time of your renewal appointment. You do not need to visit an optometrist or eye doctor beforehand unless you already know you cannot meet the vision standard. If you fail the test at the DMV, you will be told when ready and given the option to retake it or return with corrective lenses if you believe glasses or contacts will help you pass.

Missouri's vision standard is 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test. If you have had cataract surgery, LASIK, or other eye procedures, bring documentation of the surgery date — the DMV may require a waiting period before you can renew, depending on the procedure.

Key Takeaways

  • You must take the eye test in person at a Missouri DMV office; there is no mail or online renewal option.
  • The vision standard is 20/40 in each eye, measured with or without glasses or contacts.
  • If you wear corrective lenses, bring them to your appointment and wear them during the test.
  • If you fail the test, you can retake it when ready or return with corrective lenses if you believe they will help you pass.
  • Recent eye surgery may require a waiting period before renewal; bring documentation if applicable.

What happens if you fail the eye test

If you do not meet the 20/40 standard, the DMV will not issue or renew your license on that visit. You have two when ready options: retake the test if you believe you can pass on a second attempt, or leave and return with corrective lenses if you do not currently wear them.

If you fail a second time or believe you have a vision problem that cannot be corrected with standard glasses or contacts, you will need to see an eye care professional — an optometrist or ophthalmologist — before you can renew. That professional must complete a Vision Evaluation Report (form DL 43) and send it to the Missouri Department of Revenue. You cannot submit this form yourself; your eye doctor must submit it directly to the DMV.

Once the DMV receives the Vision Evaluation Report, they will review it and contact you with next steps. This process typically takes one to two weeks. If your eye doctor certifies that you meet the vision standard with correction or treatment, you can then return to the DMV to complete your renewal.

Documents and corrective lenses to bring

Bring your current driver's license or state ID to your renewal appointment. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — do not rely on the DMV having a backup pair. The DMV will not provide trial lenses or frames.

If you have had recent eye surgery, bring the surgical report or a letter from your eye surgeon stating the date of the procedure and any restrictions on driving during recovery. Some procedures, such as corneal transplants, require a mandatory waiting period before you can renew your license. The DMV will tell you the waiting period when they see the documentation.

If you are renewing after a failed test and have obtained a Vision Evaluation Report from an eye care professional, bring the original form DL 43 completed and signed by the eye doctor. The DMV will not accept a photocopy or a form submitted by you on behalf of the doctor.

How to schedule your renewal appointment

Missouri allows you to schedule a renewal appointment online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website. You can also call your local DMV office or visit in person to book a time. Scheduling in advance is strongly recommended, especially if you live in or near a major city, because walk-in wait times can exceed two hours.

When you schedule, you will be asked whether you are renewing a standard driver's license, a commercial driver's license (CDL), or a state ID. The eye test is required for all three. You will also be asked to confirm your address and provide your Social Security number. Have your current license or ID ready when you call or book online.

Appointment availability varies by location and time of year. If your license is expiring soon, book your appointment as early as possible. Missouri DMV offices are typically busiest on Fridays and the last week of each month.

Vision standards for different license types

The 20/40 vision standard applies to standard driver's licenses and state IDs. Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders must meet a stricter standard: 20/40 in each eye, with a combined field of vision of at least 140 degrees. If you hold a CDL, the eye test will also check your peripheral vision more thoroughly than it does for a standard license.

If you have vision in only one eye, you may still renew your license, but you must meet the 20/40 standard in that eye and have a field of vision of at least 140 degrees in the eye with vision. You will also be required to have an outside mirror on the passenger side of your vehicle. Bring documentation from your eye doctor if you have monovision or have lost vision in one eye.

Drivers with certain medical conditions — such as diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration — may be required to renew more frequently than the standard renewal cycle. The DMV will notify you if a medical condition on your record triggers a shorter renewal period.

Common reasons the eye test is delayed or failed

The most common reason for test failure is not wearing corrective lenses during the test when you normally wear them while driving. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them to your appointment. The DMV is testing your vision as you actually drive, not your uncorrected vision.

Cataracts, even mild ones, can cause you to fail the test. If you have been told you have cataracts but have not had surgery, your eye doctor can advise whether surgery is necessary before you renew. Some people pass the test with cataracts; others do not. The DMV will measure your actual vision on the day of the test.

Certain medications can affect vision temporarily. If you take medications that list blurred vision or dizziness as a side effect, consider scheduling your renewal appointment for a time of day when you feel most alert. If you fail the test and believe medication is the cause, ask the DMV whether you can retake the test on a different day.

Dirty or scratched glasses can also cause test failure. If your glasses are more than a year old or have visible scratches, consider having them cleaned or replaced before your appointment. A small investment in new lenses can prevent a failed test and the need to return to the DMV.

Renewal timeline and license validity

Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years for drivers under 70 and three years for drivers 70 and older. You can renew your license up to one year before the expiration date shown on your current license. If you wait until your license has expired, you can still renew it, but you may face additional requirements or fees.

The renewal process, including the eye test, typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if you pass the test on your first attempt. If you fail and need to return with corrective lenses or a Vision Evaluation Report, plan for a second visit. The entire process from initial appointment to receiving your renewed license usually takes two to four weeks, depending on whether you pass the eye test on your first visit.

Your renewed license will be mailed to the address on file with the DMV. Standard mail delivery takes five to seven business days. If you need your license sooner, ask about expedited mail options when you complete your renewal at the DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Missouri license online or by mail to avoid the eye test?

No. Missouri requires an in-person eye test for every renewal. There is no online or mail renewal option. You must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office and take the vision test in front of DMV staff.

What if I wear bifocals or progressive lenses?

Wear them to your appointment. The DMV will test your vision with the lenses you normally wear while driving. If you have multiple pairs of glasses for different purposes, bring the pair you use most often while driving.

Do I need a doctor's note to renew if I have had eye surgery?

You do not need a note to renew, but bring documentation of the surgery date and any restrictions. Some procedures require a waiting period before you can drive or renew. The DMV will tell you the waiting period when they see the documentation.

What if I fail the eye test twice?

You will need to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They must complete a Vision Evaluation Report (form DL 43) and submit it directly to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Once the DMV approves the report, you can return to complete your renewal.

How often do I have to take the eye test?

Every time you renew your license. In Missouri, that is every six years for drivers under 70 and every three years for drivers 70 and older. You cannot skip the eye test or renew without taking it.