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 Download this pdf file. Vision Report Form (DDS-MR-274) completed by a licensed practitioner.

  • Commercial Class Driver's License

    • Federal regulations require a distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye, a horizontal field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye, and the ability to recognize the colors red, green, and amber.
    • If the vision requirements are not met, a Download this pdf file. Vision Evaluation Report (Form MCSA-5871) must be completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist in order to be considered for an exemption from the Federal CDL vision standards. For additional information, please visit the FMCSA website. If the exemption is approved, the driver must present the completed form at a DDS Customer Service Center.

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 Download this pdf file. 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