Fail the Number Plate Test? You Could Lose Your Licence on the Spot

Police across Devon and Cornwall are urging drivers to check their eyesight as part of a national campaign highlighting the dangers of driving with poor vision.

Police Crack Down on Unsafe Drivers

The National Police Chiefs’ Council launched the campaign this week to remind motorists that if their vision falls below the required standard, they risk the safety of themselves, their passengers and other road users.

Drivers must be able to read a standard car number plate from 20 metres in good daylight, or have visual acuity of 0.5 (6/12) measured on the Snellen scale.

Police officers can require drivers to take a roadside eyesight test, and if they fail, their driving licence could be revoked by the DVLA almost immediately.

Devon & Cornwall Among Highest for Licence Revocations

Roads policing officers from Devon and Cornwall Police have revoked licences following failed eyesight tests on 132 occasions, the fifth highest number of revocations across all UK police forces.

The force is reminding drivers that eyesight often deteriorates gradually, so regular eye tests are essential—especially as people get older.

Drivers are also being urged to wear glasses or contact lenses if required to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.