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Even if you are not aware of any problems you should have your eyes examined every 2 years. The eye examination is a health heck, which can detect underlying health problems as well as changes in your vision.

A good time to have an eye test is just before you start learning to drive It is useful to mention to the optometrist that you are about to start learning to driving.

They may suggest that you wear glasses or contact lenses to assist your vision.

When you take your practical driving test one of the first things your examiner will do is to give you a test before you get into the car.

They will point out a vehicle and ask you to read the number plate.

You must satisfy the examiner that in good daylight you can read a vehicle number plate with letters 79.4mm (3.1in) high at a minimum distance of 20.5 metres (about 67 feet).

Number plates with a narrower font, such as the new style number plates introduced during 2001, should be read from a distance of 20 metres (66 feet).

If you need glasses or contact lens to read the number plate, that is OK.

However, you must wear them during your test and whenever you drive.

If you have had sight correction surgery you should declare this when you apply for your provisional licence.

If you can't speak English or have difficulty reading, you may copy down what you see.

If your answer is incorrect, your examiner will measure the exact distance and repeat the test.

If you fail this part of the test your examiner will mark that your eyesight has failed to meet the required standard and your test will be terminated.

We recommend that if you have any doubts about your ability to meet the eyesight requirements easily, that you seek advice from an optician before you start learning to drive.

If you are colour-blind it does not stop you from driving, but you should make sure that your driving instructor is aware of your problem. They will want to be extra sure that you can recognise road signs by the shapes and understand the sequence of lights at traffic signals and pelican crossings, as this is more difficult without the colour to help you.

Information supplied by BSM.

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