Whether you’re applying for a new driver’s license, or renewing an existing one, the vision screening is a critical step. For those with vision challenges though, this process can feel a bit confusing. What are Indiana’s standards? How is the test administered? What happens if you don’t pass the vision exam the first time around? Fortunately for Indiana residents, the state takes a more case-by-case approach to the vision requirements for a drivers license, and even if you have less-than-perfect vision, there may be a pathway to help you get on the road safely.
Why Are Vision Exams Necessary?
Driving is a visual task. Since we’re not at the point of completely autonomous vehicles (we’ve got a ways to go!), it remains necessary to be able to see well enough to operate a vehicle. The vision exam, administered in Indiana by the branch of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), confirms that a person can view stoplights and signage, maintain awareness of other drivers, and detect obstacles in time to respond defensively.
Who Needs to Take the Vision Exam in Indiana?
In Indiana, the vision exam is required for anyone applying for a learner’s permit or a license—whether you are getting a new license or just renewing. It’s possible to skip the vision screening at the BMV if you provide the Vision Screening Documentation, which is a form that must be filled out by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist certifying that your vision is sufficient for safe driving.
What Are Indiana’s Standards?
Driving rules vary from state to state, which can cause a lot of confusion–especially for people with less-than-perfect vision. In Indiana, passing the eye exam is not “all or nothing.” Instead, each eye is considered independently, with varying combinations of vision levels permitted.
What is first looked at is whether a person requires glasses or contacts. If you do, there will be a Type B restriction on your driver’s license.
Common restrictions placed on a driver’s license include:
- Type B: A type B restriction means that the driver must wear glasses or contact lenses when driving
- Type F: A type F restriction indicates a need for outside rearview mirrors when driving
- Type G: A type G driver is only permitted to drive during daylight hours
For those who drive without glasses, the standards are:
- No restrictions: Both eyes are 20/20 to 20/40
- Type F restriction: One eye is 20/20 to 20/40, while the other eye can be 20/50 to blind
For drivers who read with glasses, the requirements are:
- Type B plus F restrictions: One eye must be 20/20 to 20/40, and the other eye can be 20/50 to blind
- Type B restriction: It is permitted for both eyes to be 20/50
- Type B plus F plus G restrictions: One eye must be 20/50, and the other eye can be 20/70 to blind
- Type B plus F plus G restrictions: One eye 20/70, and the other eye can be 20/70 to blind (must show proof of normal peripheral vision)
Indiana’s approach allows for flexibility—matching restrictions to a driver’s unique level of vision rather than applying a one-size-fits-all rule.
How Is the Test Administered?
At the BMV, the vision screening is conducted using a tabletop device called the Optec 1000 DMV Vision Screener (made by Stereo Optical). This machine uses polarized filters which cause each eye to see a different set of letters, with some letters seen by both eyes. This test is designed to test the eyes both independently and together.
What Happens If I Fail the Eye Exam For a Driver’s License?
If you do not pass the vision screening at the BMV, this isn’t the final say that you cannot drive. It means that you will be given the Vision Certificate form and referred to an eye care professional for a comprehensive vision exam to determine whether your vision can be corrected with glasses or contacts. Once the information has been submitted and reviewed, the BMV may request more details, require a driving evaluation, add restrictions, or schedule future follow-ups. In some cases, it may happen that the BMV revokes driving privileges.
Can I Still Drive in Indiana If I Have Low Vision?
In some cases, yes, you can still drive in Indiana with low vision. While not everyone qualifies, Indiana offers a pathway to bioptic driving for individuals who meet specific candidacy, training, and certification requirements. Generally, this includes having at least one eye between 20/80 and 20/200 (with or without glasses or contacts), being able to achieve at least 20/40 vision through a bioptic telescope, and having normal peripheral and color vision. Along with these clinical requirements, candidates must also be motivated, cognitively intact, and medically stable. The process requires a commitment, and not every person is able to become a bioptic driver.
How Does the Bioptic Certification Process Work?
Becoming a bioptic driver in Indiana is a multi-step process involving both medical evaluation and hands-on training. The process generally looks like:
- Low vision evaluation: The first step is to have an evaluation with an optometrist specialized in low vision care. After a comprehensive evaluation, you will be fitted for bioptic telescopic glasses. After training with those lenses, your low vision doctor will assess whether you meet the requirements to be a licensed bioptic driver.
- If approved by your low vision doctor, you’ll work with a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS) to complete 30 hours of supervised training and progress toward your learner’s permit and driving test using your bioptics. This step is often facilitated through Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
- Driving test: Once you’re able to safely navigate on the road, the next step is to take the BMV driving test. If you pass this test, you will be issued a bioptic license, with regular recertifications required.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the vision screening for a drivers license isn’t meant to unnecessarily restrict people from driving—it’s meant to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road. Whether you wear corrective lenses, drive with restrictions, or require bioptic glasses, there is likely a pathway for you. If you are a person with low vision and would like to learn more about bioptic driver certification, we’re here to help.