MILLIONS of drivers face the prospect of losing their licences under a strict DVSA law change that could come into force this year.
The agency, which set the conditions for driving qualifications, may be tightening up a key medical requirement to stay on the road.
As part of its 2023-24 business plan, the DVSA set out proposals to review how drivers' eyesight is assessed.
Currently, prospective motorists have to simply read a number plate accurately from 20 metres away.
As things stand, examiners are not allowed to test before sunrise or after sunset or in bad weather.
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However, with an estimated 17 million drivers struggling to see in reduced light, this could now be changed.
The DVSA is now understood to be liaising with a Medical Panel from its sister agency the DVLA to consider whether a more thorough sight test should be introduced as part of the licencing process.
Experts from LeaseCar.uk suggest this could include compulsory sight testing in dark conditions as standard.
It is already legally required that drivers report any sight-affecting medical conditions to DVLA, or risk a £1,000 fine, but the new tests would be able to provide grounds for failure without a recognised health issue.
This could potentially see millions of prospective drivers denied a licence based on poor eyesight.
Not only that, but those who have already qualified could lose their legal status as the new rules combine with the requirement to renew their licence every three years after turning 70.
OAPs could find deteriorating eyesight becomes a much more significant factor in the renewals process going forward.
DVSA has been contacted for comment.
It comes after it was revealed that under new consumer protection plans, drivers will be able to find the lowest petrol prices in their area via their sat navs.