Why Group 2 is stricter
Licences are divided into two groups. Group 1 covers cars and motorcycles. Group 2 covers large lorries (HGVs) and buses. Because professional drivers spend far longer at the wheel, carry passengers or heavy loads, and handle larger vehicles, the eyesight standards they must meet are noticeably higher than for an ordinary car licence. A driver who comfortably meets the car standard may not meet the Group 2 standard.
The standards are set by the DVLA, and the exact figures are defined in their guidance, so this page explains the principles rather than acting as the legal authority.
The visual acuity standard
For Group 2, the requirement for sharpness of vision is higher than for a car and applies to each eye individually, not just to both eyes together. In broad terms you need good sharp vision in your better eye and a defined minimum in the weaker eye, with glasses or contact lenses if you wear them, and there are limits on how strong a correction can be in some cases. Because the exact thresholds matter and can be updated, professional drivers should check the current Group 2 figures on GOV.UK and confirm with an optometrist.
The visual field standard
The field of vision standard for Group 2 is also stricter and more closely scrutinised than for a car, because peripheral awareness is so important when manoeuvring a large vehicle. A formal visual field test is typically required, and conditions that affect both eyes, such as glaucoma, are assessed carefully. As with sharpness, the precise requirements are set by the DVLA and should be confirmed against current GOV.UK guidance.
Keeping your Group 2 licence
Group 2 drivers are subject to regular medical checks, including eyesight, and must report relevant conditions. If you drive professionally and develop an eye condition, or simply notice your vision is not what it was, the responsible step is a prompt eye test and, where needed, notifying the DVLA, rather than waiting for your next routine medical. Catching a problem early often means it can be corrected before it threatens your licence.
Not sure if you meet the standard?
Try the vision standards tool →Common questions
Are the eyesight rules stricter for lorry and bus drivers?
Yes. Group 2 licences for HGVs and buses require higher standards of both sharpness and field of vision than an ordinary car licence, and the sharpness standard applies to each eye individually.
Can I hold an HGV licence with sight in one eye?
Generally no. Group 2 standards require both eyes to meet defined levels, so sight in only one eye usually does not meet the lorry and bus standard, even though it may be acceptable for a car. Check current GOV.UK guidance for your situation.
Do HGV and bus drivers need a visual field test?
Typically yes. A formal visual field test is usually part of meeting and maintaining Group 2 standards, because peripheral awareness is so important for large vehicles.
Where do I find the exact Group 2 figures?
On GOV.UK, which holds the DVLA's current visual standards for driving. The figures can be updated, so always rely on the latest official guidance and confirm with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
My vision has changed, can I keep driving professionally?
Have your eyes tested promptly and check whether you still meet the Group 2 standard. If you do not, you must not drive those vehicles and may need to notify the DVLA. Early testing often allows a problem to be corrected before your licence is affected.
This page explains the standards in general terms and is not legal advice. The DVLA sets and updates the rules, so always check the current requirements on GOV.UK. If you are unsure whether you meet the standard, have your eyes tested by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Last reviewed May 2026 by Chris Matthews, Consultant Ophthalmologist.
