Medical and Vision Information

The Vision Exam

When applying for a license or permit for the 1st time, you will be required to have your eyes tested.  Your eyes will be tested with a mechanical device at the customer service center.  The applicant must meet the following requirements, with or without corrective lenses, to pass the vision exam:

• Regular Class Driver's License

  • 20/60 in one eye and at least 140-degree field of vision.
  • If you fail the field vision screening you will be required to have a Vision Report Form (DDS-MR-274) completed by a licensed practitioner.

• Commercial Class Driver's License

  • Federal Requirements are 20/40 in each eye and at least a 140-degree field of vision.
  • If these vision requirements are not met, a CDL Vision Exemption Form (DDSVE1) must be submitted to make a request to be exempted from Federal CDL vision requirements. If the exemption is granted, the driver would only be given a Georgia Intra-State Driver's License.

Applicants who have a vision restriction on their driver's license and elect to have surgery to correct their vision must come into a Customer Service Center and pass the vision exam to have the restriction removed from their driver's license.

Health - Medical

An applicant previously assessed with a disqualifying physical or mental disability or disease will need to:

1. Have a licensed physician determine if your medical condition makes it impossible for you to drive safely.
2. Have a licensed physician fill out a Medical Evaluation Form (DS-287) .
3. The medical evaluation form (DS-287) should be mailed or faxed by the licensed physician directly to:
   • Mailing Address: 
     • Georgia Department of Driver Services
       Medical Review Unit
       PO Box 80447
       Conyers, GA 30013
   • By FAX:
     • (770)344-3629