The DMV eye test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely

Every state requires an eye test before issuing a learner's permit. The test is quick — usually two to five minutes — and measures how clearly you see at distance and sometimes up close. The DMV uses a machine called a vision screener or an eye chart, depending on the location. You read letters or numbers that get progressively smaller until you reach the limit of what you can see clearly.

The standard passing score is 20/40 vision in each eye, though some states allow 20/60 in one eye if the other meets 20/40. If you wear glasses or contacts, you take the test wearing them — the DMV is testing your corrected vision, not your natural eyesight. If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, and most states let you bring your own glasses or contacts to the retest.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them, because the test measures how well you see with correction.
  • The passing standard is usually 20/40 vision per eye, though this varies slightly by state.
  • The test takes a few minutes and uses either a vision screener machine or a wall-mounted eye chart.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or within days at most DMV locations.
  • A failed eye test does not disqualify you from getting a permit, but you must pass before the permit is issued.

What happens during the eye test at the DMV

When you arrive for your permit appointment, the DMV staff will direct you to the vision station. You'll stand or sit about 20 feet from an eye chart or look into a vision screener machine. The examiner will ask you to read letters or numbers aloud, starting with the largest and moving to smaller ones. You read with both eyes open first, then cover one eye and read again, then cover the other eye.

The examiner records the smallest line you can read clearly with each eye. If you wear glasses or contacts, you wear them during the test. If you have bifocals or progressive lenses, let the examiner know — they may adjust your position slightly so you're looking through the correct part of the lens. The whole process is straightforward and the examiner will tell you when ready whether you passed.

Vision requirements by state and what 20/40 means

Most states require 20/40 vision in each eye to pass. This means you can see at 20 feet what a person with standard vision sees at 40 feet — in other words, your vision is half as sharp as the standard. A few states allow 20/60 in one eye if your other eye meets 20/40 or better. Some states also test for color blindness or peripheral vision, though this is less common for learner's permits.

The exact requirement depends on your state's DMV rules. Before your appointment, check your state's DMV website to confirm the vision standard. If you're close to the passing line or have concerns about your eyesight, consider getting an eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist before your DMV visit. A professional can tell you whether you'll pass and can issue a corrective lens prescription if you need one.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them. Do not rely on the DMV to have spares. If you wear contacts, bring your case and solution in case you need to remove and reinsert them during the test. If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, mention this to the examiner so they can position you correctly.

There is no way to study for an eye test — you either see the letters or you don't. However, if you haven't had an eye exam in over a year, or if you've noticed your vision changing, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor before your DMV visit. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can test your vision, issue a prescription if needed, and provide glasses or contacts in time for your permit appointment. This step takes a week or two but prevents a failed test and a delayed permit.

What happens if you fail the eye test

Failing the eye test does not automatically disqualify you from getting a permit. Most DMV locations let you retake the test the same day or within a few days. When you retake it, you can bring your own glasses or contacts, or you can bring a new prescription from an eye doctor if you've gotten one since your first attempt.

If you fail a second time, the DMV will not issue your permit until you pass. At this point, you'll need to see an eye care professional — an optometrist or ophthalmologist — to determine whether you need a prescription change, new glasses, or contacts. Once you have corrective lenses that bring your vision to the passing standard, you can return to the DMV and retake the test. Bring documentation from your eye doctor showing your new prescription and corrected vision if the DMV requests it.

Corrective lenses and permit restrictions

If you pass the eye test while wearing glasses or contacts, your learner's permit will include a restriction stating that you must wear corrective lenses whenever you drive. This restriction stays on your license even after you get your full driver's license. You must wear your glasses or contacts every time you get behind the wheel — not wearing them while driving with this restriction is a traffic violation in most states.

If your vision changes or your prescription becomes outdated, you can get a new eye exam and update your prescription. You do not need to return to the DMV for a new test unless your state requires periodic vision recertification (some states do this at license renewal). Keep your current glasses or contacts with you when driving, and consider keeping a backup pair in your car in case your primary pair breaks or is lost.

Special situations: color blindness, night vision, and medical conditions

Most DMV eye tests focus on visual acuity — how clearly you see — rather than color blindness or night vision. However, some states do screen for color blindness using an Ishihara test (colored dot patterns) as part of the vision exam. Color blindness rarely results in a failed permit test, but the DMV may note it on your record.

If you have a medical condition affecting your vision — such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy — see an eye doctor before your DMV appointment. Some conditions may require a medical evaluation form or a note from your doctor before the DMV will issue a permit. The DMV wants to may support you can drive safely, and an eye care professional can advise whether your condition affects your ability to do so and what accommodations or restrictions might explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear glasses or contacts during the eye test if I normally wear them?

Yes. The DMV tests your corrected vision — the vision you have when wearing your glasses or contacts. If you wear them to drive, wear them to the test. Your permit will include a restriction requiring you to wear them whenever you drive.

What if I fail the eye test — can I still get my permit?

No, not until you pass. You can retake the test the same day or within days at most locations. If you fail twice, you'll need to see an eye doctor, get a new prescription or corrective lenses if needed, and retake the test again.

Can I wear sunglasses during the eye test?

No. The examiner needs to see your eyes clearly and needs you to see the chart or screener clearly. Remove sunglasses and any tinted eyewear before the test begins.

What vision score do I need to pass?

Most states require 20/40 vision in each eye. Some allow 20/60 in one eye if the other eye is 20/40 or better. Check your state's DMV website to confirm the exact requirement before your appointment.

If I get new glasses after I get my permit, do I need to retake the eye test?

No. As long as your new glasses correct your vision to the passing standard, you don't need to retake the test. Your permit restriction will still require you to wear corrective lenses while driving.