Driving vision

Driving with uncorrected vision is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988. Changes to the law were brought in under the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2012. These regulations bring UK driving licensing standards for vision, diabetes and epilepsy into line with the requirements of EU Directive 91/439/EEC, which was implemented in the UK in January 2013.

The regulations introduce more frequent health testing for Group 2 drivers (drivers of heavy vehicles, including medium to large lorries and buses). Group 2 drivers were assessed at age 45. However, with effect from the first new photo card issued after January 2013, Group 2 drivers are now assessed every five years, irrespective of age.

Under the new rules, bus and lorry drivers will be able to take their driving test wearing spectacles and spectacle wearers will need to provide evidence at their five-yearly assessment (such as an optician’s prescription) to demonstrate that their glasses meet the vision standards in the Directive.

There is no statutory entitlement to paid time off for the five yearly medical tests, and there is no plan to introduce such a right. Neither is the employer obliged to pay the costs associated with any testing. Reps should try to negotiate either reasonable paid time off, or access to an on-site occupational health provider (where available) during working hours for these tests. LRD has received reports of workers being required to use their annual leave to attend this test.