Vision tests are required by every state before you can get or renew a driver's license, and you have several places where you can take one

You can have your vision tested at a DMV office, an optometrist's office, an ophthalmologist's office, or sometimes at a pharmacy or vision clinic. The state does not care where the test happens — it only cares that the person who performs it is licensed to do so and that they submit the results in the format your state's DMV requires. Where you go depends on whether you already have an eye doctor, how quickly you need the test done, and whether you want to combine it with an actual eye exam or just get the vision screening the DMV needs.

The vision test itself is straightforward: you read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance, usually 20 feet away. Your state has a minimum vision standard — typically 20/40 vision in at least one eye, though this varies — and you either meet it or you do not. If you wear glasses or contacts, you take the test wearing them. The test takes a few minutes and costs nothing at the DMV, or between $50 and $200 at a private eye doctor, depending on whether it is part of a full exam.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires a vision test before issuing or renewing a driver's license, but you choose where to take it — the DMV, an optometrist, an ophthalmologist, or sometimes a pharmacy.
  • The DMV vision test is a basic screening that checks whether you meet the minimum standard; an eye doctor's exam is more thorough and can catch problems the DMV test might miss.
  • If you take the test at an eye doctor's office, they will send the results to the DMV directly, or you will carry a signed form to the DMV yourself — ask which before you schedule.
  • Some states allow you to renew your license online or by mail if your last vision test was recent enough; check your state's rules before making an appointment.
  • Vision test results are usually valid for one to three years depending on your state, so you may not need a new test every time you renew your license.

Taking your vision test at the DMV

The DMV administers a basic vision screening as part of the license process or renewal process. This test checks whether you can read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance, usually 20 feet away. The DMV is testing whether you meet the minimum vision standard for driving in your state — typically 20/40 vision in at least one eye, though this varies by state and by license type.

The advantage of taking the test at the DMV is convenience: you are already there for your license appointment, and there is no separate fee. The disadvantage is that it is a screening, not a medical exam. If you fail the DMV vision test, you will be told to see an eye doctor before you can proceed. If you pass but have vision problems the screening did not catch, you will not know about them until you are already driving.

You cannot schedule a separate vision test appointment at most DMV offices — the test happens as part of your license transaction. Arrive early on the day of your appointment, because the vision test is one of the first steps, and if you fail it, your appointment may be delayed while you arrange to see an eye doctor.

Taking your vision test at an optometrist or ophthalmologist

An optometrist is trained to perform vision tests and prescribe glasses or contacts. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who can do everything an optometrist does, plus diagnose and treat eye diseases. Either one can perform the vision test your state's DMV requires. Many people choose this route because they want a full eye exam — not just a pass-or-fail screening — or because they already have an eye doctor they see regularly.

When you call to schedule, tell the office that you need a vision test for your driver's license. Ask whether they will send the results directly to the DMV or whether you will need to carry a signed form yourself. Some offices submit electronically; others give you a paper form that you bring to your DMV appointment. Confirm which method applies before you book, because it affects when you can schedule your DMV appointment.

The cost of a vision test at an eye doctor's office varies widely — from $50 to $200 or more, depending on whether it includes a full eye exam or just the screening the DMV requires. If you have vision insurance, some or all of the cost may be covered. If you do not have insurance, ask the office whether they offer a discount for a DMV-only vision screening, which is faster and simpler than a full exam.

Taking your vision test at a pharmacy or retail vision clinic

Some pharmacies and retail chains that sell glasses — such as Walmart Vision Centers, Costco Optical, or LensCrafters — offer vision screening services. These are usually less expensive than a traditional optometrist's office and often have shorter wait times. The person performing the test is typically a licensed optometrist or optician working under an optometrist's supervision.

Before you go, call ahead and confirm that the location offers DMV vision testing and that they can submit results in the format your state requires. Not every location offers this service, and not every state accepts results from every type of provider. Some states require that the test be performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist specifically, which would exclude some retail clinics.

What happens if you fail the vision test

If you fail the vision test at the DMV, you will be told to see an eye doctor and return with proof that you now meet the standard. You cannot proceed with your license process or renewal until you pass. The DMV will give you a form or instructions on what the eye doctor needs to document.

If you fail at an eye doctor's office, they will tell you what the problem is and what correction — glasses, contacts, or surgery — might help. You will then need to return to the DMV with proof that you now meet the vision standard. Some states allow you to take the vision test again at the DMV after you have obtained glasses or contacts; others require a second test from the eye doctor.

How long vision test results are valid

Vision test results are valid for different lengths of time depending on your state and your age. In most states, results are valid for one to three years. Some states allow older drivers (typically age 70 or older) to go longer between vision tests. A few states require a new vision test every time you renew your license, regardless of how recent your last test was.

Check your state's DMV website to find out how long your results will be valid. If you are renewing your license and your last vision test is still within the valid period, you may not need a new test at all. Some states allow you to renew online or by mail if your vision test is current, which can save you a trip to the DMV.

Corrective lenses and vision test restrictions

If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during your vision test. Your license will be marked with a restriction code indicating that you must wear correction while driving. If you take the test without your glasses and pass, but you actually need them to see properly, you are driving illegally and unsafely.

Some states have additional vision restrictions for certain conditions. For example, if you have limited peripheral vision or night blindness, your license may be restricted to daytime driving only, or you may be required to use special mirrors or devices. The eye doctor or DMV will explain any restrictions that explore to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my vision test online?

No. Your state's DMV requires an in-person vision test performed by a licensed professional. You cannot take the test remotely or submit a photo of yourself reading an eye chart. However, some states allow you to renew your license online or by mail if your last vision test is still valid, which means you might not need a new test at all.

What if I just got new glasses — do I need to wait before taking the vision test?

No. You can take the vision test as soon as you have your new glasses. In fact, you should take it with your new glasses if they were prescribed to correct a vision problem that made you fail a previous test. Bring your glasses with you to the test appointment.

Do I need a vision test if I am renewing my license by mail?

It depends on your state and how long it has been since your last vision test. Some states do not require a new vision test if your last one is still valid and you are renewing by mail. Check your state's DMV website or call before you renew to find out whether a new test is required.

What is the difference between 20/20 and 20/40 vision?

20/20 means you can see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 20 feet. 20/40 means you need to be at 20 feet to see what a person with normal vision can see at 40 feet — in other words, your vision is half as sharp. Most states require at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye to drive, though some require better vision for certain license types.

Can I take my vision test at an urgent care or regular doctor's office?

Probably not. Your state's DMV requires that the vision test be performed by a licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist, or in some cases a licensed optician. A general practitioner or urgent care doctor is not trained to perform the specific test your state requires. Stick with an eye care professional.