What Happens if You Forget Your Glasses?
Why Glasses Matter for Your DOT Exam
If you normally wear prescription glasses or contact lenses to drive, you’re required to bring them to your DOT physical exam. Vision is one of the most important factors in commercial driving safety, and forgetting your glasses can directly affect whether you pass or fail.
1. DOT Vision Standard
To qualify for a CDL, drivers must have at least:
- 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses)
- A minimum 70-degree field of vision in each eye
- Ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals (red, green, amber)
If you need glasses or contacts to meet these standards, you must wear them for your exam and while driving.
2. What Happens If You Show Up Without Glasses
If you forget your glasses (or contacts), the examiner will test your vision without them. In most cases:
- If your uncorrected vision is worse than 20/40, you will not pass the vision portion of the exam.
- The examiner cannot certify you until you return with your corrective lenses.
This means you may have to reschedule your exam, causing delays in your certification.
3. Restrictions for Drivers Who Need Glasses
If you pass the exam using corrective lenses, your medical card will include a restriction that says “Must wear corrective lenses while driving.”
- Driving without glasses or contacts when restricted is a violation of federal regulations.
- Law enforcement can issue fines or suspend your CDL if you’re caught.
4. Tips to Avoid Problems
- Always bring your glasses or contacts to the exam.
- Keep a backup pair of glasses in your truck in case of loss or damage.
- Schedule regular eye exams to make sure your prescription is up to date.
- Avoid last-minute stress by double-checking your essentials the night before.
Quick Recap
- If you forget your glasses, you’ll likely fail the vision portion of the exam.
- You may have to return another day with your corrective lenses.
- If you pass with glasses, you’ll receive a “must wear corrective lenses” restriction.
- Always bring your eyewear and consider keeping a backup pair.
DOT Modesto Keeps You Prepared
At DOT Modesto, we want your exam to go smoothly. Don’t let something as simple as forgetting your glasses delay your certification.
👉 Visit DOTmodesto.com to schedule your DOT exam today.