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Norfolk Police Begin Roadside Eyesight Checks

Monday, 9 November 2026 at 16:30

Norfolk Police are testing drivers' eyesight at the roadside, reminding motorists of legal standards and potential penalties for poor vision.

Norfolk Police have begun carrying out roadside eyesight tests as part of a national campaign to improve road safety and highlight the dangers of driving with poor vision.

Officers are asking motorists to read a vehicle registration plate from a distance of 20 metres, equivalent to approximately five car lengths.

The checks are being conducted in daylight, with drivers allowed to wear their usual prescription glasses or contact lenses.

Under UK law, motorists must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres and meet additional eyesight requirements covering visual sharpness and field of vision.

Drivers who fail to meet the legal standards could face fines of up to £1,000, three penalty points or disqualification.

Under legislation known as Cassie's Law, police can also arrange for a driver's licence to be urgently revoked if they are considered unsafe to continue driving.

Chief Inspector Gary Miller, from the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team, says defective eyesight can significantly increase the risk of collisions.

The national campaign estimates that more than 1.2 million motorists are driving with defective eyesight.

Police say vision can deteriorate gradually without drivers realising, making regular eye examinations particularly important.

Motorists are being encouraged to have their eyesight checked every two years to ensure they remain safe and legally fit to drive.

 

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