Vision screening — Kentucky Permit Test

A vision screening is required for every Kentucky first-time applicant.

The eyes are checked before anything else, because a driver who cannot read a sign cannot be taught to obey it.

A vision screening is required for all first-time applicants.

A Kentucky applicant needs a minimum visual acuity of 20/40, corrected or uncorrected, before being allowed to move on to the written test.

The vision screen is a gate rather than a formality. Fail it and the written test does not happen that day.

A minimum visual acuity of 20/40 (corrected or uncorrected) is required before the applicant will be allowed to move on to the written test.

If corrective lenses are needed to reach the Kentucky standard, the driver's privileges are restricted to require them.

The restriction is printed on the license, and driving without the glasses is then driving outside the license.

If corrective lenses are needed to achieve this standard, the applicant’s driving privileges will be restricted to mandate the use of corrective lenses.

An applicant who does not meet the minimum visual acuity is referred to a vision specialist for further examination.

A failed screen is not the end of it. A specialist looks properly before anyone is told they cannot drive.

If the applicant does not meet the minimum visual acuity standards, they will be referred to a vision specialist for further examination.

After a referral, an applicant whose visual acuity is 20/60 or better is eligible to test for an instruction permit or operator's license.

20/60 is the floor the specialist route can reach, and it is lower than the screening standard for a reason.

After the referral has been completed, applicants whose visual acuity is 20/60 or better shall be eligible to test for an instruction permit or operator’s license.

An applicant whose acuity is below the standards may qualify for the Kentucky Bioptic Driving Program, administered by the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

There is a route for drivers who cannot meet the ordinary standard, and it involves real training rather than a waiver.

Applicants whose visual acuity is less than what is described above may qualify to participate in the Kentucky Bioptic Driving Program, which is administered by the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Who must take a Kentucky vision screening?

Every first-time applicant. The eyes are checked before anything else, because a driver who cannot read a sign cannot be taught to obey it. Kentucky Driver Manual, p.10: “A vision screening is required for all first-time applicants.”