DVLA warning about ability to drive

02 September 2024

Many people disregard the risk of cataracts, believing they will not be affected until much later in life. However, early onset cataracts can occur between the ages of 40-50.

However, BBC GP Dr. Helen Wall has issued a warning after she was recently diagnosed with cataracts after noticing her vision was slightly misty whilst on holiday – which, at the time, she mistakenly put down to having suncream on her sunglasses.

Dr Helen Wall explained, "Cataracts is basically a clouding of the lens in the eye which is a small, transparent disc - or at least it should be transparent."

"When we are young, our lens is like looking through a clear window, but when you start to get cataracts, that can become very misty, more like a bathroom window. It can be quite difficult for people because it can affect things like driving, and doing their normal day to day activities as it progresses."

She added that there are clear driving regulations set out by the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA), which state that you must inform them about certain medical conditions, including cataracts, which affect your ability to drive. Failure to do so can result in a hefty fine of up to £1,000.

According to the government website, the DVLA must be notified if you have a condition which affects both eyes or if you are informed by a medical professional that your eyesight may not meet the visual standard for driving, which includes:

Being able to read a number plate from 20 metres away.
Having no double vision.
Having a normal field of vision in at least one eye (your optician can test this).

You can check here with their online tool if a health condition affects your driving.

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