DVLA notifiable eye conditions list updated – Eye care news

DVLA notifiable eye conditions list updated - Eye care news

Changes to the notifiable eye conditions list have been implemented by the DVLA following AOP advice. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has updated a list of eye conditions that must be declared by car or motorcycle drivers, the AOP has confirmed.

The guidance, available on the Government website, states that motorists must inform the DVLA of certain eye conditions affecting both eyes, or one eye if they only have vision in one eye.  It also highlights that drivers must inform the DVLA if they have been told they “may not meet the visual standards for driving, by a GP, optician or eye specialist.”

Concerns were raised over a previous version of the extended list of notifiable eye conditions in October 2022, when the AOP warned that it could apply to “almost every driver who receives a sight test.” The AOP highlighted that the extent of the list would have created an unnecessary administrative burden, as well as worry for patients. The DVLA confirmed in late May 2023 that an update would be released. Adam Sampson, chief executive for the AOP, stated: “The original list of conditions would have almost certainly applied to most, if not all, drivers. We’re pleased to see that the DVLA have listened and acted on our advice and have now published a much-reduced list – which will also be a relief to many drivers on UK roads, who faced the threat of a £1000 fine.”

A spokesperson for the DVLA confirmed to OT that it had “published an updated list of notifiable conditions following a review with our expert panel.”

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