Driving with Glasses or Contact Lenses: UK Rules

The Legal Eyesight Standard

To drive legally in the UK, you must be able to read a standard number plate from 20 metres away. If you can only do this with glasses or contact lenses, you must wear them every time you drive. This is a legal requirement, not a recommendation.

Your Licence and Corrective Lenses

If you pass the eyesight check at your driving test while wearing glasses or contact lenses, your licence will be issued with a restriction code:

• Code 01 — Eyesight correction required (glasses or contacts)

This code appears on the back of your photocard licence in the "restrictions" column.

What Happens If You Drive Without Your Glasses?

Driving without required corrective lenses is a criminal offence. Penalties include:

• Up to 3 penalty points
• A fine of up to £1,000
• Your insurance may be invalidated (as you're driving illegally)
• If involved in an accident, you may face prosecution for dangerous driving

Contact Lenses: Specific Considerations

• Contact lenses are fully legal for driving — no restriction applies
• You should carry a backup pair of glasses in case a lens is lost while driving
• Dry eye or lens discomfort while driving is common — ensure lenses are suitable for extended wear
• Never put in contact lenses while driving or stopped in traffic

Updating Your Prescription

Eyesight changes over time. If your prescription changes significantly, your old glasses may no longer meet the legal standard. Have your eyes tested every 2 years as a minimum — and immediately if you notice changes in your vision. If your optician tells you that you no longer meet the driving standard with your current prescription, you must update your glasses or lenses before driving.

Progressive Lenses and Driving

Progressive (varifocal) lenses can cause challenges for driving — particularly adjusting head position to use the distance portion of the lens correctly. If you've recently switched to varifocals, spend time in a quiet area adapting before driving in traffic. Some drivers prefer separate distance-only glasses specifically for driving.