Shepton Mallet optometrist backs older driver eye tests

By Laura Linham 7th May 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 hour ago

A Shepton Mallet optometrist has backed proposals for mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers, warning that many motorists may not realise their vision has changed.

Christopher Young, of Christopher Young Opticians in Shepton Mallet, said regular checks were important for drivers across Somerset, especially in rural areas where losing a licence can have a major impact.

The Government is consulting on whether mandatory eyesight tests should be introduced for drivers aged 70 and over as part of the driving licence renewal process.

The Department for Transport consultation is looking at a possible move away from the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards.

Mr Young said he supported mandatory testing.

He said: "Absolutely. The vision normally changes slowly so many people are not aware that they are not seeing as well as they used to.

"A regular eye examination will highlight this and the optometrist can then issue appropriate advice."

Drivers must meet the legal eyesight standard, including being able to read a number plate from 20 metres away.

Mr Young said many local drivers were not fully aware of the rule.

He said: "Most of our patients are unaware of the current requirements which are the ability to see a numberplate at 22 yards, 20.5 metres, with the appropriate correction.

"This correction, if required, should be worn every time the person gets behind the wheel."

He warned that drivers who do not meet the standard could face serious consequences.

Mr Young said: "If they are involved in an accident and they are unable to see the numberplate at the required distance they could be prosecuted for dangerous driving and they will not be insured – even if the accident was not their fault."

Motoring expert Matt Crole-Rees, from Confused.com, said sufficient eyesight was "crucial for safe driving at any age".

He said eyesight can change over time, and some drivers may not realise they no longer meet the legal standard.

According to Confused.com research, collisions involving drivers with eyesight issues rose by 26% in the last year.

The company also said nearly 20,000 licences had been revoked over the past three years due to vision problems, with more than 1,000 under-50s losing their licences last year alone.

Mr Young said drivers should have an eye test every two years.

He said warning signs can include having to get closer to road signs before being able to read them, as well as excessive glare or dazzle in sunlight or from headlights at night.

Common conditions that can affect driving safely include cataracts and macular degeneration.

Mr Young said: "The most common reversible condition affecting road safety is cataract.

"This is easily corrected, especially as we have an excellent facility in Shepton Mallet.

"Other conditions include macular degeneration which is often irreversible and will need regular reassessment by the optometrist to confirm whether the individual is still able to drive legally."

He said many patients worry about losing their licence, but most who ask are still safe to drive.

Mr Young added: "I wouldn't worry too much. It is better to identify any problems as they can often be sorted without the individual losing their licence.

"The concern though is completely understandable, especially in a rural area such as ours with limited public transport.

"However, the potential consequences of driving with defective vision can include serious injury or worse."

Drivers in Shepton Mallet and across Somerset are being urged to book an eye examination if they have not had one in the past two years.

Mr Young said anyone advised to wear glasses for driving should wear them every time they get behind the wheel.

He also said driving or distance glasses should be kept in good condition, as scratches can affect vision quality and cause significant glare at night.

The Government consultation closes at 11.59 pm on Monday, 11 May 2026.