Driving Test eyesight test on the iPad: how does it work? Is it safe? Is it fair? (20230114)

The eyesight test on a driving test is changing from reading a car number plate 20 metres away, to reading a picture of a car number plate on an iPad screen at just 5.5 metres away.
in this video, we discuss how this is still a valid test without compromising safety.

[@hellfire9145]

Thanks for this advice

[@reverendbluejeans1748]

Its a good thing I got this ipad app

[@InclusiveDriving]

You had this used on a test? Can I ask which test centre, and what time of day?

[@mehmetisci4510]

When will this go into action ?

[@kp2769]

It may be exactly the same - however reading a VRM at 20 metres is currently done in natural conditions (outside in the fresh air etc) whereas you don't look at a screen to read a VRM do you? Unless latest car technology is allowing that...

[@InclusiveDriving]

Interestingly, the eyesight test for HGV is done as part of the driver's medical check, using a traditional chart with different sized letters, known as a Snellen chart. In an optician's consultation room, the Snellen chart is now usually shown from a projector into a mirror 3m away so that you are focusing at 6m. The iPad test is no different.

[@helenturner7606]

When is this coming into place

[@fullsendmountainbiker5844]

Hi! Just wanted to ask on the standard plate test I’ve tested myself and most of the time it’s fine (I can read a plate from 25 meters ok, normally) but every now and then I find that O and D and W and M or N can get a little mixed up for me because they look similar (even when I’m at 20m sometimes). If I mixed up an O and D or W and M or N would they fail me for this or would they just ask me to read it once more? My glasses prescription is up to date and there’s nothing wrong with my eyes I’m just very short sighted btw this is why I may get these similar letters mixed up

[@InclusiveDriving]

Should be OK... check section 1.20 of the guidelines below. www.gov.uk/guidance/guidance-for-driving-examiners-carrying-out-driving-tests-dt1/01-the-practical-driving-test-and-extended-test-for-cars

[@fullsendmountainbiker5844]

@@InclusiveDriving ok thanks. But would the examiner give another chance if I just got one letter mixed up?

[@InclusiveDriving]

@@fullsendmountainbiker5844 I can only tell you what it says in the examiner's guidelines, which read as follows: "The eyesight test is a legal requirement and the correct procedure must be carried out. However, providing the test is not undermined, common sense should be applied where the numbers or letters are ambiguous."

[@Grahamvfr]

I've missed this Richard... What is the reason for the change, I've never heard anyone say negative things about the number plate test??

[@InclusiveDriving]

Brief info here: despatch.blog.gov.uk/2022/02/23/what-the-driving-test-eyesight-check-might-be-like-in-the-future/ Currently, the eyesight test relies on good lighting, meaning that driving tests are constrained to between sunrise and sunset. Using an ipad would allow tests to start earlier and/or later.

[@Grahamvfr]

@@InclusiveDriving oh ofcourse.. Sorry Richard I have seen that. Thank you.

[@raha1350]

How many steps is 20 meters? I want to take a test on the street before the exam

[@sully8317]

4-5 cars parked up

[@blackreaper.]

Do I have to retake my theory test if I fail my eyesight practical driving test???

[@InclusiveDriving]

Good question: I'm not certain. Technically, if you fail the eyesight test, the examiner will revoke your licence. You'll then have to reapply for your provisional licence. But, I'm not sure of your theory certificate remains valid.