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Sharpen up campaign

RSA and Specsavers are proud to sponsor the Sharpen Up campaign. Visit RSA's website and visit Specsavers' website

Having good eyesight is essential to safe driving. Yet many drivers fail to get their eyes tested regularly, some going years or even decades without checking their vision is up to scratch. An estimated one in six drivers would fail to meet the basic eyesight requirement. Others put themselves and others in danger by regularly driving without their glasses or lenses. Read more.

What needs to be done?

Currently, drivers of cars, vans and motorbikes are only required to have their eyesight checked once, when they take their driving test, by reading a number-plate – a non-scientific method that doesn’t accurately measure vision over distance, and fails to check periphery vision. Beyond this, when they hit age 70, drivers must simply declare their vision meets legal requirements.

Brake believes this is grossly inadequate. We need drivers to be required to undertake a proper vision test with a qualified practitioner when they take their test, and at least every 10 years thereafter (which could be at the same time as renewing your photocard) or ideally more often.

We also need to raise greater awareness among drivers that vision can deteriorate quickly, sometimes without you noticing, so you should get your eyes tested every two years (or sooner if you notice problems) and always wear glasses or lenses if you need them. If you don’t do this, it could lead to catastrophe.

What you can do:

Click like above to spread the word on Facebook
Make Brake’s Pledge, including a commitment for drivers to get eyes tested regularly
Write to your MP calling for regular eyesight checks for all drivers with a practitioner
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