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FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) - Legislation passed during the 2021 General Assembly will take effect Jan. 1, 2025, requiring everyone to undergo a vision test each time they renew their driver's license, not just when first obtaining a license in Kentucky, as is currently the case.
Rep. Kim Moser, R-Taylor Mill, was the sponsor of the measure. She told her colleagues when presenting bill in committee, "42 states have a requirement for vision screenings for driver's license renewals. Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Ohio, West Virginia and Virginia, which are all contiguous with Kentucky, require vision screening with the renewal of a driver's license."
The measure received bi-partisan support in both chambers, passing the House 84-4, and clearing the Senate 31-4. Gov. Andy Beshear then signed the bill into law.
During a demonstration for reporters in September, Matt Cole, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Department of Vehicle Regulation Commissioner, said, "This new measure is designed to ensure drivers maintain good vision standards behind the wheel, throughout their driving career."
Key provisions of the legislation include:
--The vision screenings are free at any KYTC Driver Licensing Regional Office at the time of license renewal and usually take less than a minute.
--Drivers can also have a vision exam with their vision specialist (optometrist/ophthalmologist), or a vision screening with a KYTC-credentialed osteopath, physician, or advanced practice registered nurse in advance of their license renewal visit. The medical professional will complete an approved state-issued form that they will give to the patient if they pass. The patient may bring the form to their license renewal visit if the form and exam were completed less than 12 months ago.
--If a driver does not pass the vision screening at a regional office, they will be instructed to see a vision specialist for corrective measures before proceeding with license renewal.
--Kentuckians are encouraged to bring corrective lenses if conducting a vision screening at a regional office. A restriction will be placed on your license if you pass the vision screening while wearing glasses.
--Vision screenings can only be performed once at a regional office during each renewal cycle.
--Online and mail-in driver's license renewal will still be available for Kentuckians who complete a screening with a vision or qualifying medical specialist. The cardholder simply needs to upload the official, signed form provided by their medical professional when renewing on drive.ky.gov.
