Vision Tests & Requirements
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To get or renew a Maryland driver's license — commercial (CDL) or non-commercial — you must meet the MVA's vision requirements.
Vision screening & submission options
You have several ways to complete your vision screening and submit your vision results. The option you use may depend on your age and if you are eligible to renew your license with myMVA Online Services.
- Ask your eye doctor to submit your latest exam directly to MVA.
- If your eye doctor is an authorized MVA vision certification provider, ask them to submit your exam results directly to the MVA. The MVA will except vision exams that are up to two years old.
- If your eye doctor is not an authorized MVA vision certification provider, bring your driver's license renewal form or the MVA vision form - PDF - 94.06 KB to your appointment for your eye doctor to complete. Once completed it can be mailed-in (if eligible) or brought to the MVA at your driver's license renewal appointment.
- Get your exam at the MVA
- MVA staff can check your vision when you apply for a driver's license or renew in person. If you want to renew online you can also visit the information desk (no appointment necessary) and have the exam completed and results immediately added into your account.
Vision requirements by license type
Noncommercial driver's license
Driver’s License Vision Standards (Non-Commercial)
To qualify for an unrestricted license without corrective lenses, you must have:
- Vision in both eyes (binocular vision), and
- Visual acuity of 20/40 or better in each eye, and
- A continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees.
You may receive a restricted license if you have:
- Visual acuity between 20/40 and 20/70 in one or both eyes, and/or
- A continuous field of vision of at least 110 degrees, or
- A need for standard corrective lenses to meet MVA vision rules.
You will need special handling by the MVA if you have:
- Visual acuity between 20/70 and 20/100, and/or
- A continuous field of vision between 70 and 110 degrees.
For these cases, contact the MVA Modified Vision Unit at (410) 768-7513 for instructions and special forms.
The Modified Vision Program allows some drivers with vision below the standard requirement to qualify for a restricted Maryland driver's license.
Who qualifies
You may be eligible if you have:
- Corrected vision between 20/70 and 20/100 (in one or both eyes), and/or
- A continuous field of vision of at least 70 degrees
How to apply
You, your doctor, or your eye care specialist can contact the MVA Driver Wellness & Safety Division (DWS) to request a Modified Vision Program Package. Complete and return the package to DWS. The Medical Advisory Board (MAB) will review your case and determine if you qualify.
Commercial driver's license (CDL)
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Vision Requirements
- CDL applicants/holders that do not have binocular vision of at least 20/40 or better in each eye and a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye may be eligible for a CDL under FMCSA’s alternative vision program.
- This is determined by a DOT Medical Examiner in consultation with an ophthalmologist/optometrist using FMCSA form MCSA-5871.
- CDL applicants/holders must be able to distinguish between red, green, and amber colors.
Questions? We can help.
Contact us if you have questions or need more information.