When should you take a driver's license eye test?

People need to take a vision test when getting a driver's license for the first time or when renewing the license at a branch of the state's motor vehicle department. People who wear glasses or contact lenses for distance vision should wear them while taking the test.

The purpose of the vision test for a driver's license is to measure peripheral vision, color vision and visual acuity. Eligibility standards include a minimum of 120 degrees of horizontal peripheral vision (combined) and vision of at least 20/40 in the better eye. Distinguishing among amber, red and green is also a requirement for most driver's licenses.