Thousands of drivers in the UK lose licences over poor eyesight, new data shows
Car changing is a big deal
Tens of thousands of UK motorists have lost their licences due to failing eyesight tests – and many may not realise their vision is below the legal standard until it’s too late.
More than 37,000 UK driving licences have lost or been refused driving licences after failing to meet legal eyesight requirements, according to new data obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
The figures, compiled by dealer company Marshall Motor Group from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), show that between 2022 and 2025, a total of 32,944 standard licence holders were affected. A further 4,177 bus and lorry drivers also had their Group 2 licences revoked or refused over the same period due to poor vision.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Eye test failures rising
The DVLA data highlights a worrying trend. In 2025 alone, 7,845 drivers lost their licences due to eyesight issues. While this is slightly lower than 2024 (8,258), it follows a peak of 9,479 in 2022.
Even more striking is the sharp rise in roadside eyesight test failures – increasing by nearly 180%, from 256 in 2022 to 715 in 2025, according to the DVLA data. This suggests enforcement is tightening, and more drivers are being identified as unfit to drive.
But it’s not just an older driver issue
While older drivers are most affected, the DVLA data also shows the issue spans all age groups.
Here’s a breakdown of all the licences lost or refused between 2022 and 2025:
Ages 70-79: 10,794 licences lost or refused
Ages 80-89: 8,060
Ages 55-69: 6,361
Under 55: over 6,500 cases
Although Group 2 licence holders face stricter medical standards, drivers aged 40-69 account for the highest number of vision-related licence losses, likely reflecting both age-related decline in sight and the larger size of this group.
Why eyesight issues often go unnoticed
Many drivers are caught out because eyesight deterioration usually happens gradually, so small changes can go unnoticed over time. The best thing to do is have your eyes checked regularly and take care of your eye health.
Under UK law, drivers must be able to read a standard number plate from 20 metres away in good daylight, wearing glasses or contact lenses if required.
The serious legal risks
Driving with uncorrected poor vision that does not meet the minimum legal standards is a criminal offence. Penalties include:
- A fine of up to £1,000
- Three penalty points
- Immediate loss of licence
In serious cases where poor eyesight leads to a crash or is clearly ignored as a safety requirement, it could lead to charges such as dangerous driving, which in the UK can carry an unlimited fine, a driving ban, and up to two years in prison (or up to 14 years if a death is caused).
“By the time you realise you’re struggling to read a road sign, you may have already been driving below the legal limit for some time,” warned Simon England, founder of car insurance company ALA Insurance.
The key warning signs to watch for
Here are five things to keep an eye out for that could indicate your eyesight is no longer safe for driving:
- Squinting to read road signs or street names.
- Difficulty driving at night or increased glare from headlights.
- Frequent headaches after driving.
- Struggling to read number plates at 20 metres.
- Double vision or halo-like glows around lights.
How to protect your licence
Regular eye tests are the simplest way to stay safe and compliant. We recommend booking a professional eye test at least every two years – or sooner if you notice any changes in your vision.
The findings come as the government considers introducing mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over 70, which could further tighten regulations.
Ultimately, maintaining good vision isn’t just about keeping your licence – it’s about protecting yourself and others on the road.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.