Passing the California DMV eye test is one of those hurdles that might feel a little intimidating. Driving is a privilege that requires good and clear vision for other’s safety, and yours included. Whether you’re renewing your driver’s license or applying for the first time, being ready for the eye test is key.
You require 20/40 in one eye and at least 20/70 in the other eye, or 20/40 with both eyes together, with or without corrective lenses, to pass the California DMV eye test. If you’re unsure about your vision, book an eye exam with your eye doctor to check your vision and rule out underlying causes of a vision problem that could affect your DMV test.
What Is the DMV Eye Test?
The Department of Motor Vehicles or DMV eye test makes sure you can see well enough to be a safe driver. It evaluates how sharp and clear your vision is (visual acuity) and how well you can see to the sides (peripheral vision). Good eyesight is crucial when checking mirrors, spotting road signs, or reacting to sudden changes on the road.
The DMV eye test requirements help keep you (and others) safe. Even if your vision isn’t perfect, there are solutions to help you pass.
What Happens During the DMV Eye Test?
When you arrive for your appointment at the California DMV, you’ll need to have a vision exam with the following tests:
- Visual acuity: Read a series of letters or numbers on a Snellen chart.
- Peripheral vision: To check your side vision, you’ll need to detect lights or symbols on the sides without moving your head in a visual field test.
Other tests can include depth perception and color vision, which check your ability to judge distances and if you can distinguish between different colors to recognize signs, traffic signals, and other road markings.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you’ll take the test while wearing them, so bring them along. The California DMV typically requires 20/40 vision (with or without corrective lenses) in at least one eye. If your clarity doesn’t meet the standard, you may need to visit an eye doctor and get a report from them before being issued with a driver’s license.
How to Pass the DMV Eye Test
Preparation is the key to passing your DMV eye test. Here’s how you can pass the DMV eye test:
- Know if you need correction: If you already wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure it’s an updated prescription. Blurry vision caused by an outdated prescription can make passing the test harder than it needs to be.
- Eye exam: If you haven’t had an eye exam in a while, visit an optometrist to assess your vision.
- Rest your eyes: Avoid excessive screen time the day before your test—it can strain your eyes and temporarily affect your vision.
- Sleep: Get a good night’s sleep to make sure your eyes are well-rested.
- Practice with an eye chart: Hang it up at eye level at a 10-foot distance and see how well you can read the rows. Practice with your glasses or contacts if you use them while driving.
- Consider eye exercises: If your vision is just borderline acceptable, some basic eye exercises may help. Warm up your eyes with “palming” by gently covering them with your hands for a few minutes. Practice shifting focus between objects close to you and those farther away to boost focus flexibility.
What If You Don’t Pass the DMV Eye Test
If you don’t pass the DMV eye test, don’t worry. The California DMV has a protocol for drivers who fail the vision screening, which includes a referral to a vision specialist who will examine your eyes and complete a Report of Vision Examination form. Submit this form to the DMV for review.
After reviewing the form, you may need to take a driving test. This helps determine if you can compensate for a vision condition or if it impairs your ability to drive. Poor vision with a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse may not qualify for a driving test.
Key Takeaways for Passing the DMV Eye Test
Passing the California DMV eye test is manageable—even if your eyesight isn’t perfect. Here’s a quick recap to help you pass:
- Make sure to bring and wear your glasses or contacts if you need them to see clearly.
- Always double-check your prescription is updated.
- Practice reading an eye chart at home to prepare for the test.
- Stay calm and rested before your appointment.
The DMV eye test isn’t something to be stressed about—it’s simply a way to check you’re ready to hit the road safely. Book an eye exam with Total Vision to check your vision and get personalized advice on eye health. Find a location nearest you!
