The DVLA has cancelled almost 20,000 driving licences in recent years due to drivers failing to meet vision standards, as rising concerns over road safety emerge. New data reveals that 19,715 licences have been revoked over the past three years because of eyesight issues, with 6,069 of those cancellations occurring in 2025 alone.
This comes amid a troubling 26% surge in crashes and accidents connected to poor vision over the last year. According to research by Confused.com, one in four drivers has reported experiencing a near miss due to poor visibility or eyesight problems, highlighting the risks on UK roads.
Nearly 190,000 drivers have alerted the DVLA about eye conditions in the past three years, and poor eyesight has also impacted driving test results. During this period, 1,499 learner drivers failed their tests specifically due to vision problems, which translates to approximately £93,000 in lost test fees.
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Matt Crole-Rees, car insurance expert at Confused.com, emphasized the importance of regular eye care: “Regular eye tests every two years, or sooner if you notice any changes, are essential for driver safety. If you require glasses or contact lenses to drive, it’s vital to wear them at all times behind the wheel and keep your prescription updated.”
He also warned about insurance risks: “Not wearing corrective lenses can invalidate your car insurance, potentially leading to severe consequences in an accident.”
Currently, the Department for Transport is consulting on reforms to the eyesight self-declaration process, particularly for drivers aged 70 and over. Proposals include mandatory eyesight tests when renewing licences beyond this age, aiming to enhance road safety for older motorists.
In Great Britain, driving licence entitlement expires at 70, requiring renewal at this age and then every three years thereafter to continue driving legally.