Optical Sector Seeks Mandatory Sight Tests for Drivers
10 September 2025
Organisations representing the optical sector have shared a joint statement calling for stronger vision standards for drivers across the UK.
As the Government prepares its new road safety strategy, the statement asserts now is the time to modernise the UK’s approach to driving vision and make our roads safer for everyone.
LOCSU stands in support of this statement published by the national eye care representative and professional bodies in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales; the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), and FODO – The Association for Eye Care Providers (FODO), Optometry Northern Ireland, Optometry Scotland, and Optometry Wales.
The UK optical sector is united in calling for:
1) Mandatory evidence that a driver meets the legal vision standard at provisional licence application and subsequent renewals.
2) A system designed with optometrists and dispensing opticians, the frontline experts in testing sight, correcting vision, and detecting eye disease.
3) Ensuring that public protection is based on professional assessments of drivers’ vision carried out appropriately and fairly by registered optometrists and dispensing opticians in the community.
4) Public communications to raise awareness especially among high-risk groups and to remind drivers of the importance of good vision which can make the difference between life and death on the roads.