Vision Test and Eye Health for Driving in Kentucky

1. What are the vision test requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, applicants for a driver’s license must pass a vision test and meet the minimum visual acuity requirements of 20/40 in one eye and a combined vision of at least 20/40 in both eyes. The applicant must also be able to distinguish the colors red, green, and amber. Any person who fails the vision screening may be referred to a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist for further evaluation and possibly corrective lenses.

2. What are the eye health standards for driving in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, all drivers must pass a vision test to be licensed. The minimum standards are 20/40 vision in one eye with or without corrective lenses, and/or a field of vision of at least 120 degrees in both eyes. Drivers with poorer vision than the minimum standards may be eligible for a restricted license.

3. Does Kentucky require drivers to have their vision tested periodically?


Yes, Kentucky requires drivers to have their vision tested every two years when they renew their license.

4. Does Kentucky require an eye exam prior to getting a driver’s license?


Yes, Kentucky requires an eye exam prior to getting a driver’s license.

5. Does Kentucky require drivers to wear corrective lenses while driving?


No, Kentucky does not require drivers to wear corrective lenses while driving. However, glasses or contact lenses may be required by the Department of Motor Vehicles in order to obtain a driver’s license.

6. Are different vision test standards applied to different types of driving in Kentucky?


Yes. In Kentucky, different vision tests are applied to different types of driving. For example, the visual acuity requirement for a basic driver’s license is 20/40 in either eye, or 20/40 in both eyes with corrective lenses. Commercial drivers must meet a higher standard, with a visual acuity of 20/30 in either eye, or 20/40 in both eyes with corrective lenses.

7. Does Kentucky offer driver’s license exemptions for people with certain vision impairments?


Yes, Kentucky offers driver’s license exemptions for people with certain vision impairments. People who meet the criteria set forth in Kentucky Administrative Regulation 20.080 may be eligible for a driver’s license exemption due to a vision impairment.

8. What is the minimum vision requirement for operating a motor vehicle in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, the minimum vision requirement for operating a motor vehicle is 20/40 vision in either eye, with or without corrective lenses. Drivers must also have a peripheral vision of 140 degrees.

9. Does Kentucky allow drivers to wear contact lenses while driving?


Yes, Kentucky allows drivers to wear contact lenses while driving.

10. Are there any limitations on driving for individuals with certain eye diseases in Kentucky?


Yes. The Kentucky State Department of Vehicle Regulation outlines any limitations on driving for individuals with certain eye diseases. Specifically, these regulations require that applicants must meet the visual requirements to qualify for a driver’s license, including visual acuity of 20/40 in either or both eyes, and must demonstrate a field of vision of at least 120 degrees in the horizontal meridian. Additionally, applicants must have no progressive eye condition which is likely to reduce visual acuity or field of vision below these standards.

11. Does Kentucky require drivers to pass a vision test before they can renew their license?


Yes, Kentucky does require drivers to pass a vision test before they can renew their license. The vision test must be completed and signed by a licensed eye care professional.

12. What are the restrictions for individuals with color blindness in Kentucky?


There are no specific restrictions for individuals with color blindness in Kentucky. However, individuals with color blindness may be restricted from certain types of jobs or activities that require the ability to differentiate colors.

13. What age do drivers in Kentucky need to submit a vision test when renewing their license?


Drivers in Kentucky must submit a vision test when renewing their license every eight years beginning at age 40.

14. Are there any restrictions on driving at night for people with poor vision in Kentucky?


Yes, drivers with poor vision must affix a special license plate or have a special license issued by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The license plate is marked with the words “LIMITED VISIBILITY” in bold black letters. Drivers with this special plate or license are restricted from driving between sunset and sunrise.

15. Are there any restrictions on driving for people with cataracts in Kentucky?


Yes, the Commonwealth of Kentucky requires drivers to have a minimum level of vision. Drivers must be able to pass the Snellen Visual Acuity Test with a score of 20/40 or better in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. If a driver has cataracts, and the vision in the affected eye does not meet the minimum standard, they can apply for a vision waiver from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

16. Are there any exemptions from vision testing requirements applicable to seniors in Kentucky?


Yes, in some cases, seniors in Kentucky may be exempt from the vision testing requirements. For instance, citizens over 75 years old may be exempt if their vision is 20/40 or better in at least one eye or if they can demonstrate that they are able to safely operate a motor vehicle.

17. Does Kentucky automatically revoke a driver’s license if they fail a vision test or eye exam?


No, Kentucky does not automatically revoke a driver’s license if they fail a vision test or eye exam. However, if the vision test or eye exam indicates that an individual’s vision is too poor to safely operate a motor vehicle, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet may suspend or revoke the driver’s license.

18. Does Kentucky require drivers to renew their vision test if their prescription changes significantly?


Yes. Kentucky law requires drivers to submit a vision certification form to the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office every time they renew their license, and the form must be completed and signed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The form must also note any significant changes in vision since the previous certification.

19. How often does Kentucky require drivers to have their eyes tested in order to drive safely and legally?


In Kentucky, drivers must have their eyes tested every two years when renewing their licenses.

20. What are the consequences for failing a vision test or eye exam while driving in Kentucky?


If a person fails a vision test or eye exam while driving in Kentucky, they may be issued a corrective action plan or be referred to an eye care specialist for a more extensive vision examination. If an individual is found to have a vision deficiency that affects their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, their license may be suspended or revoked. In some cases, an individual may need to obtain a Restricted Vision License in order to legally drive in Kentucky.