The DTC
Basics (1–4)7 min read

Legal Responsibilities, Eyesight & Fitness to Drive

Before you drive you must be legally fit and your car must be legal too. The examiner expects you to understand eyesight rules, drink and drug limits, and how to check your vehicle documents.

The full guide

Before you can drive legally on UK roads, you must meet certain requirements. The examiner may check your eyesight at the start of your test, and they expect you to understand the rules around fitness to drive, alcohol and drugs, mobile phone use, and vehicle documentation.

Your eyesight must meet the minimum standard. You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away in good daylight. If you need glasses or contact lenses to meet this standard, you must wear them every time you drive. The examiner will ask you to read a number plate before your test begins. If you cannot read it, your test will not continue.

Alcohol and drugs severely impair your ability to drive safely. The legal alcohol limit in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland is 80 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood. In Scotland it is 50 milligrammes. Even small amounts of alcohol affect reaction times, judgement, and coordination. Drugs — including some prescription and over-the-counter medicines — can also impair driving. Always check medication labels and never drive if you feel drowsy or impaired.

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal. This includes making calls, texting, using apps, or checking notifications. Even hands-free devices can be a distraction. The safest approach is to switch your phone off or put it in the glove box before you set off. If you need to use your phone, pull over in a safe place first.

Your vehicle must be legal to drive. It must be taxed, have a valid MOT certificate if required, and be insured for you to drive. You should also carry your driving licence and know where your insurance documents are. The police can stop you at any time and ask to see these documents. Driving without insurance is a serious offence.

Tiredness is a major cause of accidents. You should never drive when you are too tired to stay alert. Plan long journeys with regular breaks — at least 15 minutes every two hours. If you feel drowsy, find a safe place to stop and rest.

Common faults

  • Not understanding the legal alcohol limits and the effects of alcohol on driving
  • Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving
  • Driving without valid insurance, tax, or MOT
  • Driving when too tired to concentrate safely
  • Not wearing glasses or contact lenses if required for driving
  • Not knowing the minimum eyesight standard for driving
  • Taking medication that causes drowsiness without checking the label

What the examiner looks for

  • You can read a number plate from 20 metres away
  • You understand the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability
  • You know that using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal
  • You understand that your vehicle must be taxed, insured, and roadworthy
  • You know not to drive when you are too tired
  • You understand the importance of meeting the minimum eyesight standard

Quick tips

  1. 1If you need glasses for driving, keep a spare pair in the car
  2. 2The only safe amount of alcohol before driving is none
  3. 3Put your phone in the glove box before setting off — out of sight, out of mind
  4. 4Plan breaks on long journeys — at least 15 minutes every two hours
  5. 5Check medication labels for drowsiness warnings before driving

Common questions about legal responsibilities, eyesight & fitness to drive

What is the minimum eyesight standard for driving?
You must be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away in good daylight. If you need glasses or contact lenses to meet this standard, you must wear them every time you drive. The examiner will test this before your practical test.
Can I use a hands-free phone while driving?
Using a hands-free phone is legal, but it can still be a distraction. If the police believe you are not in proper control of your vehicle because you are using a hands-free device, you can still be prosecuted. The safest option is to switch your phone off or put it away before driving.
What happens if I drive without insurance?
Driving without insurance is a serious offence. You can receive six penalty points on your licence, a fine of up to £300, and your vehicle may be seized and destroyed. You may also be disqualified from driving. Always ensure you have valid insurance before driving any vehicle.
How do I know if my medication affects my driving?
Check the label or leaflet that comes with your medication. Look for warnings about drowsiness, dizziness, or reduced alertness. If you are unsure, ask your pharmacist or doctor. Never drive if you feel drowsy or impaired after taking medication.
What is the legal alcohol limit for driving?
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the limit is 80 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood. In Scotland it is 50 milligrammes. However, alcohol affects everyone differently, and even small amounts can impair your driving. The safest approach is not to drink any alcohol before driving.
Can the police stop me to check my documents?
Yes. The police can stop any vehicle and ask to see your driving licence, insurance certificate, and MOT certificate. You do not need to carry these documents with you, but you must be able to produce them at a police station within seven days if asked.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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Legal Responsibilities, Eyesight & Fitness to Drive | The DTC