Tips for the DVLA Driver's Test

[Sorshup]

Doing one's best for the DVLA visual field test requires a contradictory combination of concentration and relaxation. I have conducted many such tests, before the NHS decided it did not want multiple contracts and gave the contract to Specsavers. And of course experienced my own decline into loss of licence, my chin being ,on the chinrest! So, I hope the following will be helpful.

Make your appointment for a time of day that you feel at your best. Establish the location of the nearest toilet (if you are told there is not one for patients 'in store'). Arrive in plenty of time, fed and watered satisfactorily. Remove coat, scarf and any other clothing (careful!) to feel as comfortable as possible, and use the loo. You will need your driving specs for the visual acuity test. I despair at the requirement to use these for the VF test, theoretically separate reading specs are more appropriate for the working distance; request that you use these for a second attempt if there is any doubt over your success at passing having used distance or varifocal specs first.

For the test insist on the chair and the machine tablee heights being comfortable, no stretching or stooping. You should be advised that if you want a pause, keeping your finger pressed on the button freezes the process; you can sit back and have a wriggle, And just play with the button first, if you have arthritis it may be easier to use a forefinger rather than a thumb. Also helping is consciously blinking frequently (but quickly, to avoid misses) because this not only cleans the eye but revives retinal sensitivity. The need for concentration on the central target is obvious, but also relax your shoulders and shut out all other thought. Do not hold your breath! Breathe regularly and fairly deeply.

So many people report dissatisfaction with the test experience, I hope this helps to boost confidence a little.

[Astilbe]

Thank you so much Sorshup, any help with the test is much appreciated. I would just add my own tip to yours, I have taken 2 of these tests and am due another next year.

Specsavers vary in where they position their visual field machine. The first time I took one it was in a separate little room in Chorley. Easy to concentrate.

The 2nd time it was at a different specsavers in Lancaster (not my choice, the 1st place wasn't offered that time)

It was unbelievably noisy, in an alcove with 2 other machines (pressures and a scanner)

and with the waiting room and people clearly visible. Also a loud voiced assistant was measuring eye pressures a couple of metres away.

I completely messed up the first two tests, just couldn't concentrate . So only one chance left.

I was really upset. Then the assistant managed to get me a pair of ear defenders from somewhere and advised me about keeping the button pressed down to pause it. I then got 100% but I could easily have failed it.

Therefore I strongly advise people taking the test to take a good pair of ear defenders with them, or at least comfortable ear plugs. You may not need them but it lessens the stress if you are prepared.

[Sorshup in reply to Astilbe]

Thanks for responding Astilbe, your experience warrants a complaint to both Specsavers and DVLA ! I like your suggestion for the ear defenders. People who do not use chainsaws and ngle grinders may have earphones for the hi-fi which will also help similarly but best not to have them bluetoothed to Spotify whilst doing the test.