AMD and Driving

[willnick]

Hi,

I was wondering about dry AMD and driving. I see the optician every year and my sight is pretty stable. I can still see quite well to read and do most things. The optician has never said anything about my ability to drive, and if I need to inform the DVLA.

I was just hoping for advice on this.

[Lizty]

My mother has dry AMD. It took a very long time to affect her driving but she had regular eye tests to check sight for any problems. Best just have annual check ups until problems occur.

[Carol_MacularSociety Partner]

Dear willnick,

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 refer to the link below for further information on driving and AMD

macularsociety.org/support/...

Best wishes,

Carol

Macular Society Helpline

[Spottedog in reply to Carol_MacularSociety]

I agree with the reply from Carol. Very well stated

[willnick in reply to Carol_MacularSociety]

Thanks Carol. So you should not drive if you cannot read a numberplate at 20m irrespective of any other test ?

Maybe the first thing would be to get tested at the optician against these requirements.

Thanks

Nick

[Carol_MacularSociety Partner in reply to willnick]

Dear willnick,

You must be able to read a number plate at 20m in good daylight, using glasses or contact lenses if necessary. If you have any doubts about meeting the legal requirements for driving, then you can discuss and clarify this with your optician.

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