Vision Test and Eye Health for Driving in Minnesota

1. What are the vision test requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, all applicants must pass a vision test in order to obtain a driver’s license. The minimum required visual acuity is 20/40 in at least one eye, and the minimum field of vision requirements are 140 degrees horizontally and 35 degrees above and below the horizontal. Applicants must also be able to recognize red, green and amber traffic signals. Those who require corrective lenses must wear them to pass the vision test.

2. What are the eye health standards for driving in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, drivers must meet certain eye health standards in order to obtain or renew their driver’s license. Drivers must have uncorrected visual acuity of at least 20/40 (with both eyes open) and a peripheral field of vision of at least 120 degrees in the horizontal meridian. Drivers may also need to pass additional tests based on the type of license they are seeking. For example, commercial drivers may need to pass additional tests in order to legally operate a commercial vehicle. Additionally, anyone whose vision cannot be corrected to the specified standards may be able to obtain a restricted license.

3. Does Minnesota require drivers to have their vision tested periodically?


No, Minnesota does not require drivers to have their vision tested periodically.

4. Does Minnesota require an eye exam prior to getting a driver’s license?


Yes, Minnesota requires all new drivers to pass a vision screening test before they can be issued a driver’s license.

5. Does Minnesota require drivers to wear corrective lenses while driving?


No, Minnesota does not require drivers to wear corrective lenses while driving. However, all drivers must meet minimum vision requirements in order to drive legally in the state.

6. Are different vision test standards applied to different types of driving in Minnesota?


Yes. Minnesota has different vision standards for different types of driving. For example, the minimum vision requirement for a Class D (car and light truck) license is 20/40 in each eye, while the minimum vision requirement for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is 20/30 in each eye.

7. Does Minnesota offer driver’s license exemptions for people with certain vision impairments?


Yes, Minnesota offers driver’s license exemptions for people with certain vision impairments. People with vision impairments may qualify for a hardship driver’s license or an exemption that allows them to drive without a driver’s license.

8. What is the minimum vision requirement for operating a motor vehicle in Minnesota?


According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services, the minimum vision requirement for operating a motor vehicle in Minnesota is 20/40 vision in at least one eye with corrective lenses, if necessary.

9. Does Minnesota allow drivers to wear contact lenses while driving?


Yes, Minnesota allows drivers to wear contact lenses while driving.

10. Are there any limitations on driving for individuals with certain eye diseases in Minnesota?


Yes, in Minnesota, individuals with certain eye diseases and disorders may be subject to restrictions on their driving. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety requires an individual to have at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses, and the vision in both eyes cannot be worse than 20/200 with or without corrective lenses. Individuals with certain eye diseases or conditions that cause vision impairment may be restricted from driving or required to drive under special conditions.

11. Does Minnesota require drivers to pass a vision test before they can renew their license?


Yes, Minnesota requires drivers to pass a vision test before they can renew their license.

12. What are the restrictions for individuals with color blindness in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, there are no legal restrictions on individuals with color blindness. The state does not discriminate against any individual with a visual disability that may affect their ability to safely operate motor vehicles.

13. What age do drivers in Minnesota need to submit a vision test when renewing their license?


In Minnesota, drivers aged 65 and older are required to submit a vision test when renewing their license.

14. Are there any restrictions on driving at night for people with poor vision in Minnesota?


Yes, in Minnesota people with poor vision must not drive between sunset and sunrise unless the vehicle has been equipped with lighted headlamps that are approved by the Commissioner of Public Safety.

15. Are there any restrictions on driving for people with cataracts in Minnesota?


Yes, there are restrictions on driving for people with cataracts in Minnesota. Drivers must have 20/40 vision or better in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses, and must pass an eye exam given by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. In addition, drivers must pass a road test given by the Department of Public Safety.

16. Are there any exemptions from vision testing requirements applicable to seniors in Minnesota?


No, there are no exemptions from vision testing requirements applicable to seniors in Minnesota. All drivers in Minnesota are subject to the same vision testing standards, regardless of age.

17. Does Minnesota automatically revoke a driver’s license if they fail a vision test or eye exam?


No. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety does not automatically revoke a driver’s license if they fail a vision test or eye exam. However, if the driver fails an eye exam or vision test, the examiner may require the driver to obtain a corrective lens and submit proof of this to the department before they can renew their license.

18. Does Minnesota require drivers to renew their vision test if their prescription changes significantly?


Yes, Minnesota requires drivers to renew their vision test if their prescription changes significantly.

19. How often does Minnesota require drivers to have their eyes tested in order to drive safely and legally?


Minnesota does not have any specific requirements for drivers to have their eyes tested in order to drive safely and legally. However, the state does recommend that all drivers have regular vision screenings every two years.

20. What are the consequences for failing a vision test or eye exam while driving in Minnesota?


If you fail a vision test or eye exam while driving in Minnesota, you may be liable to have your driver’s license suspended or revoked. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, you may have to pay a fine or face other legal repercussions.