Drivers who undergo proceedures on their eyes have to undergo vision test and renew their driving licence under new regulations in Spain

http://www.typicallyspanish.com/news/publish/article_14876.shtml By h.b. - Jan 31, 2008 - 8:09 AM

It means that an estimated 75,000 drivers a year will now need to renew their licence

An estimated 75,000 drivers in Spain will have to renew their driving licence each year under new regulations. The 75,000 are those who have undergone any type of corrective surgery on their vision during the year.

They will need to take a new sight test, estimated to cost 30 €, and then pay the cost of 18 € for the licence renewal. Those who fail to do so face a 300 € fine although no points will be lost from the licence, they will have present an appeal and a copy of a medical certificate.

The new regulations come as recovery time after such operations can vary greatly, with some people not advised to drive for as long as three months. The CEA drivers club is holding an event in Madrid today to underline the importance of vision in road safety.

Last Friday the cabinet approved another change in the rules. The previous four year period during which a licence can be renewed when expired is now removed, and the theory exam will be made more difficult from September 1 this year.

I think it is a really good idea, too many people drive with defective vision. I hold a PCV and have done for the last 18 years with no need for any sort of medical, but..... Once I reach 45 I have to have a 5 yearly medical (with limited eye test) and once I reach 65, an annual medical with withdrawal of the licence at 70. Although driving a bus/ coach/ lorry can cause chaos in the wrong hands (eyes), the same can be said for car drivers that can't read the road sign until on top of it, then brake hard to make the turn.

Mark

"..............car drivers that can't read the road sign until on top of it, then brake hard to make the turn."

Too bad they don't test for colour blindness also - it's amazing how many Spaniards can't tell red from green

The medical for Spanish licences includes a reaction time test - true. As long as you can spot a red light coming on within a minute or two or so, you should be OK!