The AA Vision Screener

After your 25th, 35th ,45th ,55th ,65th or 75th birthday the Land Transport Safety Authority will send you a letter asking you to renew your old driving licence. When you visit the Automobile Association or an approved site you will need to look into the vision screener. You won't need to if you have been to an Optometrist within the previous 60 days and received a eyesight certificate.

The vision screener checks to see if...

1. each eye can see the 6/12 eyechart line.

2. both eyes together can see the 6/12 line.

3. both eyes are working together.

4. you are able to detect lights in your horizontal side vision.

If one eye is unable to see the 6/12 line or your eyes are not working together properly or you fail to see some of the lights flashed in your side vision then you will have failed the test.

What happens when you fail the AA vision screener test?

You will need to visit us or any other Optometrist. Many Optometrists, including Peter Dick Optometrists, will redo the screening test in their rooms to double check. If you pass this screen (and most people do) then you will be given a signed certificate to take back to the AA and you will be charged a nominal fee . With this certificate you will not need to go on the AA vision screener again.

If you fail the Optometrists rescreen then you will need to be booked in for a full eye examination which may include testing your side vision on a machine.

From this examination it may be determined that...

1. glasses for driving are needed

or

2. referal to an Ophthalmologist is needed

or

your eyes are indeed safe for driving without any new correction.

Once the Optometrist has proved you have met the standard you will be given a signed certificate to take back to the AA to show your eyesight is adequate for driving.

How can the AA vision screener fail someone and the Optometrist pass them?

The vision screener is designed to pick up any one who has a blurry eye, a lazy eye or poor side vision. The AA staff are unable to make judgements on whether the poor vision found is safe for driving or not. Therefore they must fail the person and let an Optometrist decide. It must be remembered the machines are passing about 90% of people tested. Of the 10% who fail a high percentage will go on to pass at the Optometrist.

Can I visit an Optometrist before I visit the AA?

Yes you can. Your Optometrist can either perform the vision screen or an eye examination and once you pass give you a certificate to take to the Automobile Association. The certificate is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Once you have the certificate you will not need to go on the vision screener at the AA.

If you live in Otago you are most welcome to make an appointment and visit us.

Peter S.Dick B.Optom N.Z.