Vision Examination
4501:1-1-08
O.A.C.
The first part of the pre-temporary driver examination consists of a vision
test and color blindness test. Acceptable visual acuities represent Snellen vision
acuities as recommended for driver licensing by the "American Optometric
Association," the "American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators,"
and the "American Medical Association."
Vision
Screening Areas:
In order to qualify for a driver license or motorcycle license a driver must be
screened in two visual areas. These areas are the acuity, and horizontal fields. An
applicant who must meet the Federal 391 medical standards and is applying for a school bus
endorsement or commercial driver license must meet the acuity, horizontal, and color test fields.
Qualifications for Commercial Interstate Driving Privileges:
Applicant must be binocular.
Must achieve a minimum acuity of 20/40 in each eye with or without lenses.
Must have a visual field of not less than 70 degrees in the horizontal
meridian in each eye.
Commercial
Intrastate (Ohio only) Driving Privileges:
If unable to meet the above standards, an applicant for a commercial driver license
may qualify for intrastate driving privileges (K2 Restriction on license) if they meet
normal Class D acuity
and horizontal field
standards.
School
Bus Driver's License cannot be issued to a person with "Monocular Vision"
without a visual acuity of 20/40 or better in each eye, with or without lenses; or with a
field of vision less than 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye; or without
the ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals.
CDL
Waiver
The B.M.V. does not offer a waiver to CDL drivers. If the driver has a K2 restriction
(Ohio Driving Only) they must contact either the P.U.C.O. or the Federal Highway
Administration to obtain a waiver to drive for a P.U.C.O. regulated company in Ohio.
Vision Failure at Renewal Time
If applicant fails vision test or is unsatisfied with restrictions, the Deputy
Registrar will refer them to an eye doctor for correction or to an examining station for a
second vision test.
