Vision Requirements for DOT Physicals: Acuity, Field, and Color Standards

Clear vision is vital for driving safety-sensitive commercial motor vehicles. Because of this, the FMCSA enforces strict vision standards that every driver must pass during the physical examination.

The Vision Standards

To pass the eye exam, you must meet three distinct criteria:

1. Acuity: Must have at least 20/40 visual acuity in each eye individually, and both eyes combined, with or without corrective lenses (glasses or contacts).
2. Field of Vision: Must have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian of each eye.
3. Color Recognition: Must be able to recognize standard traffic signal colors (red, amber, green).

Tips for Your Visit

• If you use glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment. You will be tested with them.
• If you wear contacts, be prepared to remove them if the examiner needs to test your uncorrected vision.
• If your vision does not correct to 20/40, you will need a federal vision exemption or an ophthalmologist evaluation before your card can be issued.

Review your compliance details using the DOT Qualification Checker. Ready to book? Schedule your DOT physical for $85.