Fewer Than 50% of UK Drivers Know They Must Be Able to Read a Number Plate from 20 Metres
In a recent survey conducted by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), fewer than half of UK drivers were aware that, in order to drive safely, you must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres (65 feet 7 inches) away. As traffic returns to normal levels with motorists resuming the school run and their daily commute, the DVLA is urging drivers to take the 20-metre number plate self-test.
The driving rules state that, “Drivers must be able to read (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate made after 1 September 2001 from 20 metres.” Of the 1,623 drivers who took part in the DVLA survey, 744 (48.5%) knew you needed to read a number plate from 20 metres, 454 said it was 25 metres, 322 thought it was 15 metres, and 103 had no idea. You need to notify the DVLA of any condition that could affect your driving.
The agency’s Number Plate Test campaign is encouraging motorists to use a simple test to regularly check their own eyesight to ensure they meet the minimum vision standards before they drive. It’s also a reminder that you should have your eyes tested at least every two years.
Driving safely is dependent on having good eyesight, so regular eye tests are important for every driver. Your vision can deteriorate naturally so, if you notice any change or deterioration in your vision, you should visit an optician and not wait for your next scheduled check-up. It’s feared that many drivers may have missed getting their eyes tested because of the pandemic.
Number Plate Test
The number plate test is quick and simple to do yourself. The DVLA says that 20 metres is equivalent to around the width of eight parking bays or five car lengths.
Lynette Rose, Director of Strategy, Policy and Communications at DVLA said, “The number plate test is a simple and effective way for motorists to check their eyesight meets the required standard for driving which includes reading a number plate clearly from 20 metres.
“Anyone can do the test at any time. Twenty metres is typically around the length of five cars parked next to each other. You can test yourself on whether you can clearly read a number plate of the furthest car.”
Personalised Number Plates are Plain to See
While drivers have to be able to see a standard number plate from 20 metres, personalised number plates tend to stand out from a further distance. Whether you use your name, initials, trade, or memorable date, private plates add a distinctive personal touch to your vehicle.
Whatever the style of personalised number plate you want, search the millions of personalised number plates available at CarReg now.
