Vision Examination

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

1. Applicant must be binocular.

2. Must achieve a minimum acuity of 20/40 in each eye with or without lenses.

3. 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

A 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 Bureau of Motor Vehicles does not offer a waiver to CDL drivers. If the driver has a K2 restriction (Ohio driving only) they must contact either the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) or the Federal Highway Administration to obtain a waiver to drive for a PUCO 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.