Field tests

[bobbybeech]

Any update on Specsavers' field tests? Told last June that I must have one, then sent holding letter in September. Six months later and no news. Licence expired August 2020.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

Hello Bobbybeech. We are aware that Specsavers appointments are happening again but there is a backlog due to the lockdown. I'm sure you are aware that your licence has been extended to cover you until July and that if you feel confident to drive and your consultant is happy with you continuing to drive you are covered under section 88 of the road traffic act. The Police are aware of this and your insurance company should be too. You could call your insurance company to check though. So its a case of being patient but if you wanted to you could always call the DVLA for an update.

[bobbybeech in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Thank you but I have been trying to get in touch with drivers medical group at DVLA for days, but there is an automated reply saying all phones are busy and then you are cut off. Also found an email address for 'progress reports' on applications but all you get is a standard automated reply which is no help at all.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner in reply to bobbybeech]

I think, even though it is frustrating not hearing from the DVLA since September is will be a case of just waiting and being patient. They are aware you need a test so will contact you as soon as they can.

[Yeuclid in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Section 88 will apply

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner in reply to Yeuclid]

yes it will

[Minety]

I had a DVLA Group 1 eye test at Specsavers last month after about 2 months wait. I was directed to have the test when I notified the DVLA that II developed glaucoma in my second eye. The phone number for the Specsavers DVLA Team is 0345 450 1828, they may be able to update you. I found them very helpful when I couldn't get an appointment within the timescale set by DVLA

[bobbybeech in reply to Minety]

Thank you, Minety. I spoke to a very helpful person on that number but Specsavers can do nothing until they receive the request from DVLA. He gave me an email address for the DVLA team dealing, but my email to them has come back undeliverable. Maybe it only accepts emails on that address from Specsavers. So back to square one.

[Tillybo]

Hi bobbybeechI was in the same position as you but had only been waiting since November. I had the same lack of response to a phone call and an email from the DVLA. Licence expired January. Website not updated and saying that you should ‘Renew your licence as normal if it expires on or after 1 January 2021’.

I enlisted the help of my MP. It took a couple of weeks for him to reply (they are busy people, I cannot imagine why!) but once he was on the case I received the invitation to go for the visual field test at Specsavers by return of post. I have now had the test and am awaiting my new licence.

I have just contacted him to thank him for his help and said what should other people do who are worried and in the same position. His reply, ‘I would encourage others to get in touch with their own MPs if they are experiencing problems with Government agencies like the DVLA – after all, that is what MPs are there for!‘

Good luck.

[bobbybeech in reply to Tillybo]

Thank you so much. I shall draft a letter right away.