Drivers warned new 'mandatory' check could mean licences revoked immediately

As part of a national police initiative to improve road safety, mandatory roadside eyesight checks have been introduced across the UK, reminding drivers of how important clear vision is to safe driving. The campaign emphasises the importance of regular sight tests, with police conducting screenings to check drivers are meeting necessary vision standards.

Those who fail the check could face penalties, including fines up to £1,000, penalty points, or even disqualification. As explained by Staffordshire Police, The National Police Chief’s Council’s ‘Is your vision roadworthy?’ project, as part of its Operation Dark Night campaign, began on Monday and runs until November 10.

As part of the project, officers will be carrying out roadside number plate vision tests at every opportunity, including any traffic-related stops. The aim of the campaign is to ensure as many people as possible can demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the law – being able to read a number plate correctly at a distance of 20 metres, in daylight, as well as meet the minimum eyesight standard and demonstrate they have an adequate field of vision.

If officers determine that a driver undergoing a vision test is unsuccessful, they can inform the DVLA immediately as part of Cassie’s Law. The law came into effect in February 2013 following the death of 16-year-old Cassie McCord from Colchester, who was killed on her way to school by an 87-year-old driver, just three days after he had failed an eyesight test and refused to surrender his licence. Now, any driver who fails the roadside test could have their licence revoked straight away, receive three penalty points and be fined up to £1,000, Staffordshire Police said.

Inspector Sion Hathaway, from the force's Road Crime Team, said: “It is vital that we do all we can to make sure that, when you get behind the wheel, you are not putting yourself or others at risk of injury or worse, especially during the darker winter months.”

Experts at Swansway Motor Group have shared insights on how the initiative underscores driver responsibility, highlighting the value of routine eyesight assessments - especially for older motorists.

A spokesperson said: “This police-led initiative is all about the importance of good eyesight for road safety. With roadside eyesight checks in place, the police are emphasising how vision affects a driver’s ability to respond safely on the road. It’s a proactive measure aimed at reducing accidents and enhancing safety for all. Drivers who fall short of the required standards may face severe penalties, including fines up to £1,000, three penalty points, and potential disqualification.

“The initiative aims to raise awareness among drivers about the link between clear vision and safe driving. With roadside screenings now available, motorists are reminded to prioritise their eyesight, bearing in mind how it affects their safety and that of others on the road.

“Routine eyesight tests are a simple but effective way to boost driver safety, as even slight changes in vision can affect response times. This campaign reinforces that a quick, regular eye test can help prevent accidents and promote safer roads.

“Older drivers may not always notice gradual changes in eyesight, making this initiative especially important for them. Regular eyesight checks are a positive step toward safer roads, supporting older motorists in driving with confidence while protecting themselves and others.”