Drivers are being encouraged to get their vision checked every two years as the Department for Transport provided a huge update on the future of eyesight laws following calls for mandatory tests.
James MacCleary, the Lib Dem MP for Lewes, submitted a written question asking Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander if she would make an assessment of the potential merits of requiring all drivers to complete a DVLA eye test.
In response, Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood highlighted how all motorists have an "ongoing legal responsibility" to ensure they meet the vision standards for driving.
The main test for this is for drivers to be able to read a standard car number plate made after September 1, 2001, from 20 metres. They are able to use glasses or contact lenses, if necessary.
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The Department for Transport has provided an update on the future of eyesight rules
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She also echoed calls from the DVLA to notify the agency of any changes to their health or vision which could impact their ability to meet appropriate standards.
The MP for Nottingham South added: "The Department for Transport supports the National Health Service’s recommendation that adults should have their eyes tested every two years and the DVLA encourages drivers to regularly check their own vision by reading a number plate from 20 metres and arranging a formal vision test when required.
"There are no current plans to introduce mandatory eyesight testing of all drivers."
Motorists could be prosecuted if they drive without meeting the standards of vision for driving and they end up in an accident.
It comes as campaigners and drivers call for more to be done to crack down on motorists who do not have suitable eyesight to be behind the wheel and put others at risk.
Research from the Association of Optometrists last year found that six in 10 optometrists have seen a patient in the last month who continues to drive despite being below the legal standard for motoring.
The AOP has called for laws to be changed to ensure all drivers have their vision checked when they first apply for a licence and when they renew their licence.
For those under the age of 70, this would be every 10 years, while elderly motorists would need to do this every three years once they hit the milestone 70-year mark.
Since eyesight can decline significantly from an old age, the AOP said there was support for more frequent vision checks for older drivers, who may be more hesitant to get their eyes checked over fears they could be taken off the road.
Adam Sampson, chief executive of the AOP, said roads are not as safe as they should be because people are ignoring eyesight guidance, yet continuing to drive despite the massive risks.
He said the number plate test was "flawed and out of step without many other countries" who measure eyesight to ensure everyone is safe behind the wheel.
Guidance from the General Optical Council confirms that it is appropriate to notify the DVLA directly of any eyesight issues.
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GETTYThis is supported even if the patient does not consent when the patient is unwilling or unable to notify the DVLA themselves.
Speaking previously to GB News, a Department for Transport spokesperson said: "Every death on our roads is a tragedy, and our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way.
"The NHS recommends adults should have their eyes tested every two years, and while we do not have plans to change eyesight requirements for driving, we continue to explore ways to improve road safety."
