I have just been diagnosed with AMD

[dont-panic]

I got a letter today from Moorfields telling me I have dry AMD and my visual acuity is 6/7.5 in each eye. It doesn't tell me I have to do anything about driving. What do I need to do?

[Carol_MacularSociety Partner]

Dear dont-panic,

Having macular degeneration does not automatically mean you have to stop driving. Many people still meet the legal requirements and can continue to drive safely and legally. You must have a visual acuity of at least 6/12, meet visual field test standards (drivers with macular conditions usually pass this as the peripheral vision is not affected) and be able to read a car number plate at 20 metres.

However, if your eye specialist says you have any sight condition in both eyes which cannot be corrected with prescription glasses, you have a legal duty to inform your driving licence authority. If you don't, you could be breaking the law and this can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

You should also inform your car insurance provider. This is the case even if you feel your sight is still good.

Please see this link to further information on macular disease and driving

macularsociety.org/support/...

The Macular Society Helpline is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0300 3030 111. Alternatively, you can contact us via: [e-mail]

Best wishes,

Carol

Macular Society Helpline