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The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will reportedly update its guidance for drivers with eye conditions “within a few weeks”.
The agency is said to have taken the move after the Association of Optometrists (AOP) “expressed serious concerns” about the published list of notifiable health conditions last year.
He stated that it was “so extensive that it could be applied to almost all drivers who receive a vision test.”
In response, the AOP claims that the DVLA has agreed to review the list, with updated guidance to be published “in the coming weeks”.
the independent has approached the DVLA for comment.
AOP Chief Executive Adam Sampson said: “We continue to have an open dialogue with the DVLA on this important issue to work towards a pragmatic solution for our members, patients and the DVLA.
“The extension of the original list would really have been problematic for many, so we are incredibly pleased to see that the DVLA has listened to industry advice.
“The measure will surely eliminate an unnecessary administrative burden for doctors, but it will also ease the concern of many patients.”
The DVLA also worked with the Transportation Department’s Medical Advisory Panel to make the modifications, according to the AOP.
Concerns were initially raised about the DVLA’s updated list when it was published in October.
Had they been enforced, the rules would have meant that almost all drivers who have had an eye test would have to notify the DVLA.
It would have meant that drivers who were in an accident where vision was decided to be a factor could face a £1,000 fine and three points if they had not notified the DVLA of the condition prior to the incident.
In more serious cases, it could result in a disqualification.
In a statement at the time, the DVLA agreed to remove the list of conditions from the view, and confirmed that it would “welcome the opportunity” to work with the AOP to revise the guidance.
According to the AOP, two-thirds of drivers across the UK who wear glasses are putting off updating their prescription, while 20 per cent have not had a recent eye exam.
