The Andy Burnham government is considering stripping driving licences from all drivers who fail a roadside eyesight test. This measure is part of the Road Safety Strategy, which was published by the previous Labour government led by Sir Keir Starmer. Now that Mr Burnham is Prime Minister, it falls to the Makerfield MP and former Greater Manchester Mayor to decide on the strategy's proposals.
Proposals in the Road Safety Strategy
The strategy includes several other measures, such as introducing a three or six month minimum learning period for learner drivers, a lower blood alcohol limit for novice drivers, and mandatory eyesight testing for drivers aged over 70. The strategy also commits the government to continue working with the National Police Chiefs’ Council to highlight the importance of regular police roadside eyesight tests for all drivers.
According to the strategy, drivers who fail to meet the minimum eyesight standards required for driving will have their driving licence revoked by the DVLA. The document states that this will apply to all drivers who fail the test.
Legal framework and enforcement
Under section 163 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, a police officer in uniform has the power to require a driver of a vehicle on a road to stop. It is an offence to fail to comply with such a request. Drivers must be able to read a registration plate from 20 metres (approximately five car lengths). It is an offence to drive with uncorrected defective eyesight.
If a driver fails a vision test at the roadside, or fails to comply, the police can immediately report this fact to the DVLA. There is a fast track system whereby a decision to revoke a licence can be quickly made, with such decisions taking place within hours. Once a licence is revoked, it will not be returned until the driver can demonstrate that their eyesight meets the required standard.
