DVLA test – to wear glasses or not?

[YoungontheOutside]

I have to go for a DVLA visual field test. I see that there is the option to either wear glasses or not. Can anyone tell me, which is best? I guess it is possible that the frames might restrict the field somewhat..

Also, I am a bit puzzled as to why they have asked me to take the test in the first place. I had to report to DVLA another condition but I only have glaucoma in one eye and my consultant says that I am fine to drive. There is a phone number on the DVLA letter and I wondered if anyone had any experience of telephoning them? Do they answer within a reasonable timeframe? Would they even give me the benefit of an explanation?

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

If you wear glasses for driving, then the initial test will be with them on. The other 2 can be with or without. If the glasses have a wide rim, which may stop you acknowledging the lights, you may be asked to do the test without.

[YoungontheOutside in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Thanks for this Trish and also for your email. I have sent email to DVLA and will let you know what they say.

[Dumyat26]

For my last few tests I have been allowed to take multiple tests with and without glasses. You should also ask (before you begin) for printouts of your results, which you are entitled to but I believe are not always offered.

[ODTAA]

I tried ringing DVLA many times, but they would not accept calls. Then, only a week ago, I got through and they were helpful -or so I thought until I talked to my consultant ophgthalmologist again. His understanding was different to what they had told me. Unfortunately, usually telephone calls are not recorded by you, and so you have no record of what was said. I now always contact them by letter, as they don't give out an email address.

[RobMitchell]

Hi. I had my DVLA test on Friday. My last one was 3 years ago. I found the latest test to be far better. The optician said that the DVLA wanted to know what the driving experience was for drivers, so he advised that I keep my glasses on because I wear them when driving, and also the field test isn’t split into left and then right eye anymore, it’s both together. It made it so much easier and felt a lot fairer. I’m awaiting the result and it may be touch and go due to the acuity issue in my left eye but I’m very hopeful and the field test felt like my best in years despite deterioration. Good luck.

[Donasavi1971]

Hi as your licence been provoked,they have had my application 3 weeks now, but I discovered if you mention you need your car for work they do try and push your application through quicker you can email them too,they don't reply but they add any emails to your case ready for the medical team.