To test your vision, you will be asked to look into a machine and read lines of letters/numbers to the examiner. The vision screening determines whether your eyesight meets Virginia's standards to safely
operate a motor vehicle. It is not a medical exam. If you fail the vision screening, you may be asked to see an eye care professional. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision screening, you must wear
them when you drive. Your license will show this restriction. To have this restriction removed after having laser surgery to correct your vision, you must visit a DMV customer service center and pass the vision screening without wearing glasses or contact lenses or submit a Vision Screening Report (MED4). 
Driver's license
- 20/40 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
- 100 degrees, or better, horizontal vision in one or both eyes.
Driving restricted to daylight hours only:
- 20/70 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
- 70 degrees, or better, horizontal vision. If only one eye, 40 degrees or better temporal and 30 degrees or better nasal are required.
This type of restricted license permits you to drive only during the period of time beginning one-half
hour after sunrise and ending one-half hour before sunset.
Commercial Driver's License
- 20/40 or better vision in each eye
- 140 degrees, or better, horizontal vision
These visual requirements must be met without the aid of a telescopic lens. Some drivers may be granted waivers from these vision requirements.
Commercial drivers with only one eye must meet the following requirements:
- 20/40 or better vision in one eye
- 120 degrees, or better, horizontal vision
Bioptic telescopic lenses
If you wear bioptic telescopic lenses, contact your local DMV to find out about vision requirements.
Click to find out more information about bioptic telescopic lenses.
For additional information, refer to the Minimum Vision Requirements (MED5) information sheet.
