DVLA question

[Cocomolyneux]

Hi, I am confused about whether I need to tell the DVLA I have glaucoma.

My optician referred me to an ophthalmologist after an issue with the visual field test for my left eye. The ophthalmologist was unsure if I had glaucoma and so I was referred to another specialist. He has since told me he is 90% sure I have normal tension glaucoma in both eyes and recommended SLT for both eyes, even although I have no issues with the visual field test in my right eye. He also said I could drive. Should I contact DVLA?

[judetheobscure22]

If you only have glaucoma in one eye you don't need to tell the DVLA (assuming the other eye meets the standard test). There is an online checker to be sure: gov.uk/health-conditions-an...

[LolaW in reply to judetheobscure22]

Hi Jude, (love the book by the way)... I just had a cataract surgery for my right eye and they will do the left soon. I am not clear about the diagnosis, I think mine hasn't developed into glaucoma yet, (lucky me, 2 months from diagnosis) it was put down as primary angle closure on the right and primary angle closure on the left. My eyesight has improved massively on the right eye (one week since) and that suggests that no nerve damage has been done. Would there be a point reporting to DVLA now?

[NewCardinal]

Yes you are required by law if you have glaucoma diagnosed in both eyes. They will then require you to have the DVLA visual field test and confirm your fitness to drive.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

Before you think about contacting the DVLA you should ask your consultant if you are a glaucoma suspect or have glaucoma in both eyes. As they have mentioned a 90% certainty of NTG, you may very well need to tell the DVLA but it worth checking.

[Maisie79]

I’ve recently been diagnosed with normal tension glaucoma in both eyes. My visual field tests were ok but all the advice I’m getting points to informing the DVLA and taking the test. My consultant didn’t mention driving & I didn’t think to ask at the time!

I’ve looked at the form online & it seems quite straightforward.

Best of luck with everything.

[Crazycatlady27]

I’m sorry to hear this. I too have normal tension glaucoma. As you have both eyes affected you need to inform the dvla. If you don’t it is a £1000 fine. You will need to do an Esterman test. It is a visual field test but you do it with both eyes at the same time and wearing your normal glasses. They have certain Specsavers across the country that are authorised to do the test. I’m sure you will be fine. Good luck

[PeterRabbit62]

Like the other replies you need to inform the DVLA in states on their website and you can get a leaflet all about drivers and gluacoma from this site as well, free of charge, downloaded and in the post, it tells you what to do in both, you have to do it not your opticians, not Opthalmologist you have to inform them if you have gluacoma in both eyes, you have to take a test as well set by them, best wishes good luck.

[Dumyat26]

I was found to have G in both eyes 10 years ago. No one told me That DVLA must be notified, so was driving for a year before I found out. I believe my insurance would have been invalid had I had an accident. Luckily now all is legal and I have not had any problems passing the F of V tests.

[nstewart61]

Before you do anything get it confirmed whether you have glaucoma in both eyes or not. Believe me, you don’t want to step onto this ‘rollercoaster’ if you don’t have to!

[LondonStadium]

Hi ,From a personal point of view I would get advice from your consultant or optometrist because once you go inform DVLA they are a very hard organisation to deal with .