The laws of Ukraine establish certain restrictions on driving by people with visual impairments. Find out more about the legal requirements and whether you can drive without glasses

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Vision is one of the most important senses, especially for drivers. The safety of both the driver and other road users depends on the clarity of vision on the road. That is why Ukraine has clear requirements for the vision of people who want to get or exchange a driving licence.

Poor vision while driving: legal requirements

The main requirements for drivers' vision in Ukraine are:

● Visual acuity: better eye - at least 0.6 (for categories A, B, B1, C1, D1). For professional drivers (categories C, D, CE, DE) - at least 0.8. Worse eye - not less than 0.2 (for categories A, B, B1, C1, D1). For professional drivers - not less than 0.4.
● Binocular visual acuity: with correction if necessary, must be at least 0.5.

● Field of vision: limitation of the field of vision by more than 20 degrees in any of the meridians is a contraindication for driving a vehicle.

In addition to the requirements for visual acuity and visual field, there are certain eye conditions that are contraindications for drivers. These include:

● chronic eye diseases that cannot be treated;
● glaucoma;
● persistent diplopia due to strabismus;
● cataracts;
● colour blindness;
● retinal detachment;
● diabetic retinopathy.

If a person has a visual impairment but wants to get a driving licence, during the medical examination, doctors will make appropriate notes in the future driver's documents indicating the need to use glasses or lenses to drive a vehicle.

Driving a car without glasses or lenses that are necessary for the driver's health condition will result in administrative liability in the form of a fine. The amount of the fine will depend on the specific circumstances of the case, such as the place where the offence was committed, its seriousness, previous violations, etc.

How can I renew my driving licence if my eyesight has improved?

If a driver had vision problems when he or she received a driving licence, but they were later resolved and the driver's vision is now in line with the standards, the following steps should be taken:

● undergo a repeat medical examination to confirm the condition of your eyesight;

● go to a medical institution that has the right to issue official certificates for drivers;
● visit a service centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and apply for renewal of your driving licence.

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A reminder for Ukrainian drivers!

For every vehicle in the country, an insurance policy is mandatory.

Motor third party liability insurance (MTPL) is a compulsory vehicle insurance in Ukraine that guarantees compensation for damages in the event of an accident. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can buy a CTP insurance policy from a licensed insurer for reliable protection on Ukrainian roads. Packages with a deductible of UAH 3200, UAH 1600 and UAH 0 are available.

Just a reminder. Many drivers prefer self-service car washes because of the significant time and cost savings. Read here to find out how to wash your car at a self-service car wash and avoid stains.

Photo: Freepik