What the eye chart test checks and why it matters

The eye chart test at the DMV measures whether you can see well enough to read road signs, spot hazards, and react safely while driving. The test itself is straightforward: you stand a set distance from a chart (usually 20 feet) and read letters or symbols that get smaller as you move down the rows. The DMV records your vision as a fraction — 20/40, 20/60, and so on — which tells you how far away you need to be to see what a person with typical vision can see from 20 feet.

Every state requires a vision test before issuing or renewing a driver's license. The minimum standard varies slightly by state, but most require at least 20/40 vision in each eye, or 20/40 in one eye and 20/70 in the other if you have a significant difference between them. If you fall below the state minimum, you will not pass the test, and the DMV will either deny your license or issue it with restrictions — such as requiring you to wear corrective lenses while driving.

The test is not about whether you have perfect vision. It is about whether your vision is safe for the road. Millions of people drive with glasses or contacts and pass the test without issue.

Key Takeaways

  • The vision test measures how far away you need to be to read what a typical driver can see from 20 feet, recorded as a fraction like 20/40 or 20/60.
  • Most states require a minimum of 20/40 vision to pass, though the exact standard depends on your state and whether you have vision in both eyes.
  • If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test and while driving if that is how you achieved the passing score.
  • Failing the vision test does not mean you cannot drive — it means you need corrective lenses or a medical evaluation before the DMV will issue your license.
  • Some states allow you to retake the vision test when ready if you fail, while others require you to return on a different day or after seeing an eye doctor.

How the test is administered at the DMV

When you arrive for your license test, the DMV will direct you to the vision screening station, usually staffed by a clerk or technician. You will stand at a marked line, typically 20 feet from the eye chart, and read aloud the letters or symbols the examiner points to. The examiner starts with larger letters and moves to smaller ones until you can no longer read accurately.

The test is done one eye at a time. You will cover one eye (usually with a patch or your hand) while reading with the other, then switch. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test. The DMV records whether you passed with or without correction. If you passed only with correction, your license will carry a restriction code requiring you to wear corrective lenses whenever you drive.

The entire vision test takes about two to three minutes. If you pass, you move on to the written test and driving test (if required). If you fail, the DMV will tell you the result when ready and explain your options.

What happens if you fail the vision test

Failing the vision test does not automatically disqualify you from getting a license. Your options depend on your state's rules and the reason you failed. Most commonly, the DMV will ask you to see an eye doctor and bring back documentation of your vision correction or medical clearance.

Some states allow you to retake the vision test on the same day if you have just obtained new glasses or contacts. Others require you to wait a set number of days (often 30 to 60 days) before retesting, giving you time to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist. A few states require a medical report from an eye care professional before you can retake the test at all.

If you have a medical condition affecting your vision — such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy — the DMV may require a more detailed eye exam or a report from your doctor before deciding whether to issue a license. Some states have a medical review process for vision-related conditions, which can take several weeks.

Corrective lenses and license restrictions

If you pass the vision test only while wearing glasses or contacts, your license will include a restriction code. This code means you are legally required to wear corrective lenses every time you drive. Driving without them when the restriction is in place is a violation and can result in a ticket, fine, or license suspension.

The restriction code appears on your license as a number or letter (codes vary by state — common ones are "01" or "B" for corrective lenses required). When you renew your license, you will take the vision test again. If your vision has improved or you no longer need correction, the restriction can be removed. If your vision has worsened, the restriction stays in place.

If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, you should mention this to the DMV examiner. Some states have specific rules about which types of corrective lenses are safe for driving, though bifocals and progressives are generally permitted.

Vision standards by state and special circumstances

While most states use 20/40 as the minimum standard, some are stricter. A few states require 20/30 or better, particularly for commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). Some states allow a lower standard in one eye if the other eye meets the minimum — for example, 20/40 in one eye and 20/70 in the other. A handful of states have different standards for different license classes.

If you have vision in only one eye, most states will still issue a license, but you may be required to pass additional tests or restrictions may explore. Some states require a wider field of vision in the good eye to compensate. If you are blind in one eye, contact your state DMV directly to learn the specific requirements, as they vary significantly.

Older drivers and drivers renewing after a long gap may face additional vision testing requirements in some states. A few states require more frequent vision testing for drivers over a certain age (often 70 or 75). Check your state's DMV website for age-specific rules.

Preparing for the vision test

If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you to the DMV. Wear them during the test — this is the most common reason people fail and then pass on a second attempt. If your glasses or contacts prescription has changed recently, consider getting a new exam before your license test. An outdated prescription can cause you to fail even if you have corrective lenses with you.

On the day of the test, make sure you are well-rested and not fatigued. Tired eyes can affect your ability to read the chart accurately. If you have had eye surgery recently (such as LASIK or cataract surgery), ask your eye doctor when it is safe to take the vision test, as your vision may still be stabilizing.

If you know you have vision problems, do not wait until your license appointment to address them. See an eye doctor beforehand so you have time to get corrective lenses if needed. This avoids a failed test and the delay of having to return later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear sunglasses during the vision test?

No. You must remove sunglasses and any tinted eyewear during the test. If you have a medical reason for light sensitivity (such as photophobia or certain eye conditions), bring documentation from your eye doctor, and the DMV may make an exception or allow you to take the test under adjusted lighting.

What if I cannot read English? Can I take the vision test in another language?

The vision test itself does not require reading English — you are reading letters or symbols on a chart, not words. However, the DMV examiner will give you instructions in English. Some states offer written tests in other languages, but the vision test is the same regardless of language. If you have difficulty understanding instructions, ask the examiner to repeat them or demonstrate what you need to do.

Do I have to pass the vision test on my first try to get a license?

No. If you fail, you can retake it. The rules for retesting vary by state — some allow you to retake it the same day, others require you to wait 30 to 60 days. Contact your state DMV to learn the retesting policy and whether you need to see an eye doctor first.

What if my vision is 20/50 in one eye and 20/30 in the other?

This depends on your state's rules. Most states allow one eye to be slightly below the minimum (such as 20/50 or 20/60) if the other eye meets or exceeds the standard. However, some states have stricter rules. Check your state DMV's vision requirements or call to ask whether your specific vision measurements would pass.

Can I get a license if I have had eye surgery and my vision is still changing?

You can take the vision test once your eye doctor says your vision has stabilized, usually several weeks after surgery. If you take the test before stabilization and fail, you may have to wait before retesting. It is better to wait until your doctor confirms your vision is stable and then take the test once.