Alaska DMV Vision Test: 20/40 Standard and Restriction Code B

You need at least 20/40 vision in one or both eyes to get an Alaska instruction permit. You can wear glasses or contacts to meet this standard.

Alaska DMV Vision Requirements for an Instruction Permit

the Alaska DMV Division checks your visual acuity and peripheral vision. You must pass both to get your instruction permit.

Official Vision Standards and Testing

The vision test happens at a DMV office in Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, or other locations. You will use a tele-binocular machine or read a wall chart.

• Visual Acuity: 20/40 or better in one eye or both eyes together.
• Peripheral Vision: A field of view of at least 140 degrees.
• Testing with Glasses: Wear your corrective lenses during the test if you need them for distance vision.
• Bioptic Telescopes: Allowed if vision is 20/200 in the carrier lens and 20/60 through the telescope.

Getting a Permit While Wearing Glasses

Yes, you can get an Alaska instruction permit if you wear glasses or contacts.

For Alaska permit process details, see the Alaska permit guide.

• If you need corrective lenses to pass the 20/40 standard, the DMV will add a 'Corrective Lenses' restriction (Code B) to your permit.
• You must wear your glasses or contacts every time you drive.

The Vision Screening Process and Outcomes

The screening is quick after you submit your Form D1 and pay the $15 fee. Common outcomes include:

• Pass: A student in Fairbanks reads the 20/40 line clearly with her glasses on and correctly identifies the side lights. She proceeds to the written test.
• Fail - Acuity: At the Juneau office, Miguel's contact prescription had lapsed without him noticing. He failed the 20/40 line and needed a new Rx before returning - Juneau optometrists book two weeks out, so the delay compounded. His application was paused on the spot.
• Fail - Peripheral: In Anchorage, a person misses two flashing lights on her left side during the field of view check, indicating a potential restriction.

If You Fail the DMV Vision Screening

Failing the test is not a denial. The DMV provides the Vision Assessment Form for basic vision certification. For detailed evaluations, use Form 468 (Confidential Eye/Medical/Mental Examination Report). You may also submit a certified statement from a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist instead of taking the in-office screening.

1. Take Form 468 to a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist.
2. The specialist performs a full exam and determines if your vision is safe for driving.
3. If approved, the doctor signs the form, which you return to the DMV to resume your application.
4. The DMV may issue a permit with restrictions like 'Daylight Driving Only.'

Can I Get an Alaska Permit if I Have Vision in Only One Eye?

Monocular vision does not automatically prevent you from driving in Alaska. If your usable eye meets DMV standards, the DMV may allow driving with restrictions such as two outside rearview mirrors.

What if I Pass the Eye Chart but Have a Peripheral-Vision Problem?

The DMV can require further medical or eye-specialist review when vision raises a safety concern. Do not assume that passing only the acuity portion settles the full vision review.

Can I Retake the Alaska DMV Vision Test After Failing?

Yes, a failed screening does not always end the application. Depending on the result, the DMV may ask for an eye examination or vision assessment before deciding whether you qualify and whether a restriction is needed.

Does color blindness prevent you from getting an Alaska permit? Alaska's non-commercial vision guidance does not list color blindness as an automatic disqualification. Color testing appears on DMV forms for CDL applicants, so a standard Class IP applicant should focus on the non-commercial vision standards and any restriction the DMV assigns.

How to Prepare for the Alaska DMV Vision Test

• Schedule an eye exam before your DMV visit if it's been over a year to avoid a failed vision screening and rescheduling delay.
• Bring your most recent prescription glasses or contacts to your appointment; using an old pair can cause you to fail the eyesight test for the permit.
• Arrive at the DMV early, like 8:15 AM at the Wasilla office, to complete the vision screening before the midday rush and equipment calibration issues.

Use Alaska permit practice questions to build test confidence before your visit.