What Are the New FMCSA Vision Requirements?

Just like other governmental regulations change over time, the US Department of Transportation is no exception to this idea. When dealing with interstate commerce, the driver requirements also experience subtle changes that affect the lives of commercial truck drivers in numerous ways.

One of the more recent changes regarding the FMCSA vision requirements is if drivers experience visual impairment in only one eye. 

Continue reading to learn more about this new FMCSA vision requirement and how these vision requirements affect your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

Vision Requirements for Commercial Drivers

In order to operate a commercial vehicle, the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has specific criteria and vision requirements. 

These vision requirements are incredibly important to keep drivers and others on the road safe since driving a commercial vehicle requires rigorous levels of eyesight.

Drivers must meet and pass specific requirements for their visual acuity and field of vision, meaning they have the ability to see well during driving in most conditions for safe travel. Having these standards helps limit crash risks.

Visual Standards

Visual standards are set in place by USDOT to ensure safe driving. The previous visual requirements drivers must satisfy are as follows:

• A minimum of 20/40 vision in both eyes 
• Color vision to accurately spot traffic signs, lights, and devices. The colors of importance include red, green, yellow, and orange
• The field of vision standard must remain at least 70 degrees from the middle of both eyes
•  Note these FMCSA vision requirements are acceptable with or without corrective lenses

What Did FMCSA Amend?

In the past, the visual requirements required that commercial drivers meet all of the mentioned above visual requirements in both eyes. However, the new amendment has changed this limitation by allowing drivers the opportunity to pass the vision test as long as one eye passes the criteria. 

It was determined that those with “monocular vision can safely operate a commercial vehicle,” opening up more opportunities for new commercial drivers.

Who Does This Change in Rules Affect?

This change in rules affects drivers who have poor vision in one eye alone. In the previous ruling, having one eye that does not meet the standards would disqualify drivers from operating their vehicles altogether.

Now, however, if drivers pass the vision tests in at least one eye with a current medical professional, their medical card remains active, allowing them to continue driving commercial vehicles. 

Stay Current With FMCSA Vision Requirements & Permits

Allow FMCA Filings to help you address your commercial driving requirements, complete a DOT safety audit, book medical inspections, provide various compliance checks, and meet the current FMCSA vision requirements.

With the new rules, individuals who did not initially qualify can now pass these conditions with one eye that meets all of the vision standards. To stay on top of the current news and needs, check out FMCA Filings for permits, medical exams, regulations, and more to manage every commercial trucking need online today!