Driver eyesight regulations in the UK are under serious scrutiny right now—and for good reason. After a series of tragic incidents involving drivers with poor vision, the Government is rethinking how it monitors eyesight for motorists. For fleet operators, this could bring big changes.
Whether you’re managing a few company cars or a large commercial fleet, staying on top of driver eyesight compliance has never been more important. Let’s look at what’s changing, what it means for you, and how you can keep your team road-safe and compliant.
Why Are UK Driver Eyesight Rules Being Reviewed?
An inquest into the deaths of four pedestrians – struck by drivers with known visual impairments – sparked a national conversation. The drivers involved all had eyesight well below legal standards but were still behind the wheel. Coroner Dr James Adeley called the UK’s system “the laxest in Europe” and “unsafe.”
The UK is one of the only European countries that allows drivers to keep their licence without any formal eyesight check until they turn 70. Right now, drivers are expected to self-declare any issues, which simply isn’t working.
In response, the Department for Transport (DfT) is reviewing the current eyesight rules as part of a wider road safety strategy. Reforms could be announced by the end of 2025.
What This Means for Fleet Managers
If you’re responsible for managing drivers, these changes could have a direct impact on how you operate. Here’s what to watch out for:
Increased Compliance Requirements
There may soon be mandatory eyesight checks at regular intervals—especially for drivers over 70. Fleet managers could be expected to collect, verify, and report this information to stay compliant.
Stricter Penalties for Non-Compliance
If a driver with known vision issues is involved in a crash, and the company hasn’t done its due diligence, the business could face legal consequences.
More Responsibility on Employers
With self-reporting under review, the responsibility for monitoring driver health may shift more toward employers and fleet operators.
How FSGB Driver Management Helps You Stay Compliant
At FSGB Driver Management, we understand how critical compliance is – not just to meet legal standards, but to keep your drivers and the public safe.
That’s why we offer regular driver eyesight declarations as part of our driver management system. This allows you to:
- Collect up-to-date eyesight information from all your drivers
- Flaging potential risks early
- While keeping digital records for compliance checks
- Reduce the risk of costly legal issues
You’ll always know your drivers are safe and road-legal – without the admin headache.
What Might Change in the New Eyesight Rules?
Here are a few proposals that could become part of the updated regulations:
- Mandatory eye tests after age 70
- Digital reporting system where GPs and opticians notify the DVLA directly
- More frequent declarations or checks for professional drivers
These changes are designed to prevent future tragedies and ensure that every licensed driver meets the minimum visual standards.
FAQs About UK Driver Eyesight Regulations
What are the current UK rules on driver eyesight?
Drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away and must tell the DVLA if they have any vision problem that affects both eyes (or the remaining eye, if they only have one). But there’s no formal test after passing your driving test—until age 70.
Are employers responsible for checking eyesight?
Technically, the responsibility is on the driver to declare issues. But with new reforms expected, fleet operators could soon be required to play a bigger role in making sure drivers are visually fit to drive.
How often should fleet drivers have an eye test?
The NHS recommends a test every two years, but for professional or high-mileage drivers, annual checks are a good idea. FSGB can help manage this process for you.
What happens if a driver doesn’t report eyesight problems?
If they’re involved in a crash and it’s found they didn’t meet legal eyesight standards, they could face prosecution. So could employers if they failed to take reasonable steps to ensure driver fitness.
Final Thoughts
Eyesight might not be the first thing you think of when managing a fleet—but it’s a vital part of road safety. With UK driver eyesight regulations now under review, it’s time to act.
By working with a partner like FSGB Driver Management, you can stay ahead of the curve, protect your drivers, and keep your fleet compliant—without the stress.
Need help with eyesight compliance?
Contact FSGB Driver Management today to learn how our simple eyesight declaration process can support your business.
