Vision Test and Eye Health for Driving in North Carolina

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


In order to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina, you must pass a vision test performed by a North Carolina licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist, or optician. The vision test must show that you are able to distinguish between colors, have at least 20/40 vision in both eyes when corrected, and have a field of vision that meets state requirements. If you need glasses or contacts to meet these requirements, you are required to wear them while driving.

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


The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles requires drivers to pass a vision test every 8 years when renewing a driver’s license. The test requires a visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in either or both eyes, with or without corrective lenses, and peripheral vision of at least 70 degrees in both eyes. If the applicant fails the vision test, they will be referred to an eye care professional for further review and assessment.

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


No, North Carolina does not require drivers to have their vision tested periodically.

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


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

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


No, North Carolina does not require drivers to wear corrective lenses while driving. However, drivers may be required by law to wear corrective lenses during the licensing process.

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


Yes, different vision test standards are applied to different types of driving in North Carolina. For instance, drivers age 18 and over must have a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses, while drivers under the age of 18 must have a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in one eye and 20/70 in the other.

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


Yes, North Carolina offers driver’s license exemptions for people with certain vision impairments. The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles provides an application to submit for an exemption, which must be completed and signed by the applicant’s doctor. A vision test is also required before an exemption can be granted.

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


In North Carolina, drivers must have at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. They must also be able to distinguish between red, green, and amber colors.

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


Yes, North Carolina allows drivers to wear contact lenses while driving. However, drivers must be able to see clearly and wear contacts that are not tinted or colored.

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


Yes. In North Carolina, the Department of Transportation requires that all drivers have at least 20/40 vision in one eye and peripheral vision of at least 140 degrees in both eyes. Additionally, individuals with certain eye diseases, such as glaucoma or cataracts, must demonstrate acceptable levels of visual acuity and field of vision before they are allowed to drive.

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


Yes, North Carolina requires drivers to pass a vision test before they can renew their license.

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


Individuals with color blindness in North Carolina are not restricted from any activities or professions. However, it is important to note that they may fail to meet certain visual requirements depending on the profession or activity.

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


In North Carolina, drivers over the age of 40 must submit a vision test when renewing their license.

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


Yes. According to North Carolina’s Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers with vision that does not meet state standards must display a “Restricted Vision” sticker on their vehicle and must only drive during daylight hours.

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


Yes, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) restricts driving for people with cataracts. According to the NC DMV, people must have at least 20/40 vision in their better eye, with or without glasses, in order to safely operate a motor vehicle. The DMV also requires that a driver must have a clear field of vision in all directions. A vision test is required when applying for or renewing a driver’s license and can be performed at a local DMV office or by an optometrist.

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


Yes, there are exemptions from vision testing requirements for seniors in North Carolina. Drivers age 70 and over may be exempt from the vision test if they have held a valid license for the previous four years. Additionally, drivers age 80 and over may be exempt from the vision test if they have held a valid license for the previous two years.

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


No. In North Carolina, drivers who fail a vision test or eye exam must take corrective measures before their license can be reinstated. However, their license is not automatically revoked.

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


Yes, North Carolina requires drivers to renew their vision test if their prescription changes significantly. Drivers can do so by visiting the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles website to request a vision test form and taking it to a licensed optometrist.

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


North Carolina does not require drivers to have their eyes tested in order to drive safely and legally.

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


Failing a vision test or eye exam while driving in North Carolina can result in a driver having their license revoked or suspended. Drivers may also face civil penalties or fines. Additionally, drivers may be required to undergo additional vision testing or take corrective measures before being allowed to drive again.