Practice for the DMV Eye Test
If you are heading to the Department of Motor Vehicles to renew or obtain your driver's license, you must pass a basic vision screening. You can use our free online eye test tool as a practice test to determine whether your visual acuity meets your state's minimum legal benchmarks.
What is the DMV passing score?
In almost every US state, an unrestricted driver's license requires 20/40 visual acuity in both eyes combined or in at least one eye. If your eyesight falls between 20/40 and 20/70, most licensing agencies still allow you to drive with a restriction (such as corrective lenses or daylight-only driving) after an eye specialist completes an official evaluation form.
How the screening works at the counter
At the DMV counter, examiners typically ask applicants to look into an optical viewer machine (such as an Optec or Titmus viewer) or read an illuminated Snellen chart on a wall 10 or 20 feet away. You will be asked to read a specific line—frequently line 5, corresponding to the 20/40 mark—first with both eyes open, then monocularly with one eye occluded.
How to practice accurately at home
Ensure your screen is calibrated using a standard credit card (85.6 mm). Mark a line exactly 10 feet (3 meters) away from your display. Cover one eye with your palm without pressing on the eyeball, and read down the randomized letters. Testing each eye individually at home eliminates test anxiety and tells you immediately if you should renew your prescription glasses before your appointment.