Are you preparing to apply for your UK driving licence and wondering if your eyesight meets the standard? If so, you’re not alone. One of the most common concerns among new drivers is whether their vision meets the legal requirements for driving. At Astra Driving School, we guide learners in Manchester through every part of the driving journey—including the often-overlooked eye test for the driving licence.
In this post, we’ll explain exactly what’s required, how to prepare for the eye test, and why good vision is critical for safe driving. Let’s get started.
Why the Eye Test Matters Before You Start Driving
Before you can legally drive on UK roads, you must prove that you meet the minimum eyesight standards. This helps reduce accidents and ensures that all drivers have the necessary vision to read signs, notice hazards, and respond quickly to changing road conditions.
If you’re planning to learn to drive in Manchester, your driving instructor will check your eyesight on your first lesson. Failing to meet the eyesight requirement could delay your progress or prevent you from continuing lessons until the issue is corrected.
What Is the Legal Eye Test Requirement for a UK Driving Licence?
To pass the basic vision check required by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), you must be able to:
- Read a car number plate from 20 metres away (with glasses or contact lenses, if needed).
This is the minimum legal standard for eyesight required for driving in the UK. You’ll be tested on this by your instructor before your first practical lesson—and again at the start of your driving test.
If you can’t meet this standard, you won’t be allowed to drive until you’ve improved your eyesight through prescription lenses or corrective treatment.
How to Prepare for the Eye Test for Your Driving Licence
Here are some simple steps to make sure you’re ready:
- Test your sight at home – Try reading a number plate from 20 metres (roughly five car lengths) to assess your vision.
- Book an appointment with an optician – If you’re unsure, get a complete eye exam before starting driving lessons.
- Use corrective lenses if required – Glasses or contact lenses are acceptable during the test and while driving.
- Carry your glasses/contact lenses – Always bring them with you for your driving lessons and your test.
Tip from Astra Driving School: If you’re not confident in your ability to read road signs or see clearly at night, schedule a vision test before starting driving lessons in Manchester.
What Happens If You Fail the Eye Test?
If you fail to read a number plate from the required distance at the start of your driving test, the examiner will cancel the test, and you’ll automatically fail.
You’ll need to correct your vision and provide evidence that your eyesight now meets the standard before you can rebook the test.
Benefits of Learning with Astra Driving School in Manchester
Choosing the right driving school makes all the difference. At Astra Driving School, we understand how nervous learners can feel about the eye test and other driving requirements.
Here’s why local learners trust us:
- Qualified and Experienced Instructors
- Patient, DVSA-approved instructors who guide you step-by-step.
- Flexible Scheduling
- We offer lessons 6 days a week to fit your availability.
- Affordable Rates
- Transparent pricing with value-for-money packages.
- High First-Time Pass Rate
- Our learners are fully prepared—not just for the driving test, but for real-world driving in Manchester.
Local Driving Knowledge Matters
Learning to drive in Manchester presents some unique challenges:
- Busy urban roads with multi-lane roundabouts and heavy traffic in areas like Longsight and Rusholme.
- Local test centres such as West Didsbury, Cheetham Hill, and Sale each have different test routes.
- Weather conditions—Manchester’s frequent rain and fog can reduce visibility, making good eyesight even more critical.
Our instructors are local experts who help you navigate these conditions with confidence and skill.
Quick Checklist
- Can you read a number plate from 20 metres?
- Visited an optician recently?
- Are glasses or contact lenses available if required?
- Confident driving in different weather and light conditions?
If you can tick all of the above, you’re ready to book your lessons with Astra Driving School!
Conclusion
If you’re a learner in Manchester preparing to apply for a UK driving licence, don’t overlook the eye test for a driving licence. It’s a quick check, but a crucial one. At Astra Driving School, we ensure every student begins their journey safely and confidently—with the right vision and the proper support.
📞 Ready to start your driving journey?
Book your first lesson today and let our expert instructors help you pass with confidence.
🚗 Contact Astra Driving School Today
Astra Driving School – Manchester
📍 Address: 11 Bowling Green Lane, Longsight, Manchester, M12 5FZ
📞 Call Now: +44 7758 837589
📧 Email: astradrivingschool@hotmail.com
🕘 Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 08:00 AM – 09:00 PM
🌐 Visit: https://astradrivingschool.com
FAQs
Do I need an eye test before starting driving lessons?
No official test is required before lessons, but your instructor will check your ability to read a number plate from 20 metres.
Can I wear glasses or contact lenses for the eye test?
Yes. You can and should wear corrective lenses if you need them to meet the legal requirement.
What happens if I fail the eye test at my driving test?
You will automatically fail the driving test and must provide proof of corrected vision before rebooking.
How far is 20 metres for the eyesight check?
It’s about five car lengths or the distance of a typical swimming pool.
Is the eye test repeated during the theory test?
No. The eye test is only conducted at the start of your practical driving test.
Can I book a lesson without passing the eyesight check?
You can book, but the first lesson will start with the number plate test. Failing to do so may prevent the lesson from continuing.
Do Astra Driving School instructors help with eyesight checks?
Yes, our instructors will perform the number plate test at the beginning of your lessons.
Where can I take an eye test in Manchester?
You can book an appointment at any local optician, including high-street chains like Spec savers or Vision Express.
