I have difficulty deciding what is a light when i take the DVLA glaucoma test. sometimes it just looks like a grey circle

[savvylady5]

I dont understand what I am supposed to do here

[Beecalmed]

Well DVLA tests always give me the wobbles! So much is riding on them! Consequently I always feel I’ve done worse than I have. Nerves can make you perform badly too. Can you explain what you mean by the grey circle…unless you mean the grey background of the test, maybe?

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

You just need to focus on the dot in the middle (the focal point) and press the button when you see a light flash. The lights are a constant brightness and it is done with both eyes open. If you havent used the type of machine that is being used at the specsavers you attend, always ask them to explain exactly how it works. Also, you can ask them to pause the test at any time if you feel uncomfortable or unsure.

[Hidden in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Hi Trish, I'm not sure I understand how to do the test either? I was under the impression that you had to focus on the moving fixation point. It is my opinion that instructions should be circulated prior to the test. I paid for several independent tests to experiment how I could best pass this test. Are the instructions different for the Henson compared to the Humphrey? I understand the DVLA want the test to be administered to gain a true reflection of someone's visual field, but whilst the instructions are delivered in an inconsistent manner, some people will be unfairly passing while others fail. Let's have a fair assessment.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner in reply to Hidden]

Yes, the Henson may have a moving light you must follow, compared to the Humphrey or Zeiss that don't. We always recommended you ask for a full explanation on how the machine works before you start the test, so you know exactly what to expect.

[Hidden]

I took my most recent Esterman VF test at a SPECSAVERS branch last week and I found the flashing lights were distinct from the background, but fuzzy around the edges. Perhaps, you can ask your consultant if your experience is consistent with your issues at your next review. Following my first binocular VF test, I accepted that my sight must be awful, but I asked to see the printout which indicated I had lost central vision. This was inconsistent with my consultant's diagnosis and report. Three and a half months later my licence was revoked. I was forced to use SPECSAVERS for my independent test, as other optometrists in my area do not have the equipment. However, I chose another branch, because I was not totally satisfied with my first experience. I gained 100% at first attempt in new branch. Last week, when the pressure was on, I missed two lights on first attempt, one light on second attempt and saw 100% on third attempt. I certainly advise you to try out a range of SPECSAVERS & machines, to see where you are most comfortable. It will cost about £40 a go, but it was through experimenting that I discovered my framed glasses were obscuring my vision and that the Henson 9000 is my favourite. There continues to be inconsistencies in the way the test is administered. Good luck.

[densmith1]

I have the same thing. Press the button when you see anything. My experience with Specsavers has been a complete lack of explanation despite my questions. It feels like they (or perhaps the DVLA) are more concerned with people trying to cheat the machine than anything else. Good luck.

[AnneTeresa]

I did the Henson test on Saturday and had 3 attempts (previously only one attempt) in a cupboard under the stairs with a roller blind and no door and a table outside where staff were talking clients through their choice and price of new specs at my local Specsavers. Not good for concentration. The test was conducted by an optical assistant who initially told me he w going to abort the test as I wear varifocals and he was of the opinion that I must take the test wearing reading glasses which I do not have and even if I did I would not wear them to drive in. I await my result but am not optimistic.

[balacakkhu]

Dear savvy lady5, Please listen very carefully about the procedure. If you are not very clear please ask again. Only start the test when you are 100% sure. You are allowed to do test run. The best of the three results will be considered by DVLA.

DVLA

1. open both eyes with or with glasses depends on your best vision (at hospital one eye at the time)

2. there are two lights one is fixed (but it will move later: at the hospital it is fixed all the time) and the other one is moving from angle to angle. While focusing the fixed light you press the button when you see the moving light at the peripheral field.

3. The fixed one will be moved to various angle later you need to follow it and focus again While you are focusing the fixed light when you see the second one (moving one) then press the button.

Please note the examination room may be busy with other people you need to ignore them with very hard and very patiently.

Good luck and Best wishes,

[Beecalmed]

Specsavers should know that you take the test in the glasses you drive in, if you wear glasses, and no glasses if you don’t wear glasses. The test should replicate the circumstances that you usually drive in.I have also experienced the test being conducted in a side room to the main sales room of the opticians and had staff enter and hold a conversation right next to me about someones prescription which really distracted me during the test. I passed luckily.

The next time I was tested 3 years later I explained what had happened and requested that she stopped anyone else entering and requested staff don’t talk loudly near the room I was in. I smiled and tried not to be confrontational. It worked and it was slightly less distracting but I do think this should be addressed and distraction free space provided. It is a big deal to loose you driving license. And life changing if you drive for your occupation.

[Bonniecat7]

I recently had my first DVLA test. I missed one flash on the first go so they suggested I retake it without my glasses on incase the frame had got in the way. I was apprehensive as I thought I might do worse without my glasses, but sure enough I got 100% the second time. Must've been the frame, so well worth doing one of the tests without.

[savvylady5 in reply to Bonniecat7]

This is exactly what I find