You’ve probably heard the term “20/20 vision” used to describe clear sight. It’s a common goal for many people who visit their eye doctor. But what does this measurement actually tell you about your eyes, and what is considered normal vision?
In simple terms, 20/20 vision is a standard used to measure your visual acuity (or the sharpness of your vision) from a specific distance. It means you can clearly see what a person with normal vision can also see on an eye chart from 20 feet away.
Understanding 20/20 vision can help you have more productive conversations about your eye health and the importance of preventative eye care.
A Simple Definition of 20/20 Vision
When an optometrist measures your vision, the number 20/20 works sort of like a fraction. The top number represents the distance at which you can read a certain line of letters on an eye chart. The bottom number indicates the distance at which a person with normal vision can read the same line of letters.
So, if you have 20/20 vision, you can read at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can also read at 20 feet. 20/20 is considered the standard for normal visual acuity, and it’s a benchmark used for many practical purposes, including the California DMV eye test. It’s a helpful reference for your eye doctor to use during an exam.
How Vision Ratings Compare
While 20/20 is a familiar term, it’s just one of many possible measurements. Your vision can be sharper or less clear than this standard. Understanding these comparisons can give you a better picture of your own sight.
Is 20/20 Vision Perfect?
Having 20/20 vision is a good indicator of your distance vision, but it doesn’t mean your sight is perfect. A full picture of your eye health involves much more than a single measurement, as visual acuity only measures clarity from a set distance.
Other important abilities contribute to your overall visual function. These include your peripheral or side vision, how well your eyes work together, your depth perception, and your ability to see colors.
What About 20/15 or 20/40 Vision?
Some people have vision that is sharper than 20/20. If you have 20/15 vision, it means you can see a line on the eye chart from 20 feet away that an average person would need to be 15 feet away to see. This indicates above-average visual acuity.
On the other hand, a measurement like 20/40 means that your visual acuity is below the standard. You would have to be 20 feet away to see what a person with normal vision can see from 40 feet away. Your eye doctor can use this information to find the right prescription for glasses or contacts.
How Common Is 20/20 Vision?
Only about 35 percent of adults have 20/20 vision naturally without any visual aids. However, with corrective options like glasses or contact lenses, that number increases to about 75 percent. Your local eye care provider can help determine your specific vision needs and find a solution that works for you.
What Is Legally Blind?
The term “legally blind” refers to a specific level of visual impairment. A person is considered legally blind if their vision is 20/200 or less in their better eye, even with correction. This level of impairment is a form of low vision that often requires specialized support. It means that a person must be 20 feet away to see an object that a person with 20/20 vision can see from 200 feet away.
Reasons You May Not Have 20/20 Vision
If your vision isn’t 20/20, a refractive error is often the reason. Refractive errors occur when the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing directly on your retina. These conditions are very common and can affect people of all ages.
The four most frequent types of refractive errors include:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia): Objects in the distance appear blurry, while close-up objects remain clear.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Close-up objects look blurry, while distant objects may be clear.
- Astigmatism: Vision can be blurry at all distances because of an irregular curve in the cornea or lens.
- Presbyopia: An age-related change that affects your ability to focus on close objects, often noticed after age 40.
How to Test Your Vision
The most reliable way to measure your visual acuity is with an eye chart during a comprehensive eye exam. These exams are important for everyone, from children to seniors, as they also help track changes in your vision and screen for other eye health conditions. In fact, you might be surprised by what an eye exam can detect about your overall health.
Your optometrist will review your results and discuss options to help you see more clearly. If you need to find an eye doctor in California, our Total Vision network has many locations throughout the state to serve your family. We focus on making eye care accessible for everyone in your community.
Options for Clearer Sight & Eye Health
Whether you have 20/20 vision or not, protecting your eyes is an ongoing effort. From vision correction to daily habits, you can take steps to support your eye health. A regular exam is the best place to start.
How to Correct Your Vision
If you don’t have 20/20 vision, there are many effective ways to help you see more clearly. Prescription eyeglasses and various types of contact lenses are two of the most common options. Your eye doctor can talk with you about which solution fits your lifestyle and visual needs.
How to Maintain Your Eye Health
You can also adopt simple, proactive habits to support your vision. These practices can help protect your eyes from strain and other issues. Consider adding these steps to your daily routine.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and fish with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Wear sunglasses with full UV protection whenever you are outdoors.
- Give your eyes regular breaks from digital screens. Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams with your local eye care provider.
Preventative care is a key part of maintaining your vision for years to come. With convenient locations, Total Vision makes it simple to find trusted eye doctors across California for your entire family. Schedule your next appointment to take a proactive step toward clear vision and healthy eyes.
