DVLA Begins Implementation Of Phase Two Of Eye Test Reform
DVLA Begins Implementation Of Phase Two Of Eye Test Reform Regulation 29 Of Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (L.I 2180).
Freeman Koryekpor 
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and the Ghana Optometric Association (GOA) has from September L 2022 commenced nationwide exercise to implement phase two of eye test reform.
The exercise is in compliance with Regulation 29(5) of the Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (L.I. 2180 and reinforcing its mandate to promote road safety in the country.
The Regulation provides that an applicant for driver's licence must submit to the Licensing Authority, a visual assessment results certified by a registered ophthalmologist or optometrist.
Phase one (1) of the reform, began on June 1, this year for categories A, B & E driver's and rider's licence applicants. Phase two (2) will involve applicants for renewal, replacement and upgrading of driver's licences, conversion of foreign driver's licences, proficiency test, accident reporting as well as traffic offending drivers referred to DVLA by a Court of competent jurisdiction and all other services that will require an eye test.
The reform seeks to standardise the testing processes and procedures to conform to Regulation 29 of L.1 2180.
The reform is to;Comply with the provisions of Regulation 29 of the Road Traffic Regulation,
2012 (L.I. 2180), ensure that eye tests are conducted and the results certified by a registered ophthalmologist or optometrist only in compliance with the Regulation referred above, standardise and improve the standard for the eye test, ensure that only persons with good vision are licensed to drive and ride.
It would also help identify drivers who may be developing vision problems and recommend treatment for them if possible and enhance the Authority's quest to provide online drivers licence renewal services as part of measures to reduce congestion at its offices.
The driver's brain and the eye must work together but sometimes it does not happen as expected so a neurological assessment of one's eye is important to be assured that the driver sees well.
The reform has the tendency of reducing to the barest minimum the incidents of road accidents. It would afford drivers the opportunity to see well and interact well with the road environment.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority and the Ghana Optometric Association assure the general public that effective systems including control measures have been put in place to transmit the results electronically through a portal from any of the eye test facilities to DVLA without any compromise or alteration.
Applicants for services requiring eye test are encouraged to undergo the test between one and two months prior to obtaining the service.
Management of DVLA therefore urged applicants and prospective drivers referred to under the provisions of Regulation 29 of the Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (L.I. 2180) to comply with the reform to enhance their own safety and the safety of other road users.
