Missouri MSHP Vision Test: 20/40 Threshold and Restriction Codes (2026)

You need 20/40 visual acuity in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses. Each eye requires 55 degrees temporal horizontal peripheral vision, or 85 degrees in one eye if the other falls below 55 degrees.

Can You Pass Missouri's MSHP Vision Screen With Glasses or Contacts?

Yes, you qualify for a Missouri instruction permit with corrective lenses. Wear them during screening and every time you drive.

• Acuity Standard: 20/40 or better in one or both eyes with or without correction.
• Peripheral vision must measure 55 degrees temporal horizontal in each eye, or 85 degrees in one eye if the other measures below 55 degrees.
• Passing with glasses or contacts triggers an 'A' restriction on your permit, making corrective lenses mandatory while driving.

Full vision standards appear in 12 CSR 10-24.090 on the Missouri Code of State Regulations.

Can you get a Missouri permit if you only have good vision in one eye?

Possibly. Missouri's published standard allows 85 degrees of temporal peripheral vision in one eye when the other eye measures below 55 degrees, along with the applicable visual-acuity standard. Some results can lead to additional review or a driving restriction rather than an automatic unrestricted pass.

How Does the MSHP Optec Vision Machine Test Work at Missouri Stations?

The Missouri State Highway Patrol administers mandatory vision screening at driver examination stations before you take the written test. This screening confirms you meet minimum visual acuity and peripheral vision thresholds.

• Most stations use an Optec vision testing machine. Some locations use a standard Snellen wall chart.
• You'll read letters or numbers and identify light flashes to measure peripheral vision.
• Wear your glasses or contacts during the test if you need them to see clearly.

Missouri's vision test failure catches people off guard more than any other single step. At the St. Louis office, one applicant's new prescription sat uncollected at the optometrist, she failed the vision screening, collected her glasses two days later, and passed. St. Louis optometrists book out 2+ weeks, so collect your prescription before booking the MSHP appointment.

Test your vision with your current prescription before your appointment. You'll skip the hassle of rescheduling your written exam if you already know your lenses work.

Check Chapter 2 of the Missouri Driver Guide for complete driver exam details including vision screening procedures.

Does color blindness affect the Missouri permit vision test?

Missouri's published permit vision standards focus on visual acuity and peripheral vision. They do not list a separate color-vision threshold for the standard MSHP screening.

What Happens After You Fail the Missouri MSHP Vision Screen

Failing the Missouri vision test means you cannot proceed with the knowledge test that day. Bring a corrective lens prescription or a completed optometrist report on Form 1523 to your next visit.

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

The Missouri learner's permit guide has full eligibility details.

The examiner gives you Form 999 (Vision Examination Record) to complete with a licensed eye doctor before returning for the required follow-up.

1. Schedule an appointment with a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist who completes Form 999.
2. Pay for the eye exam, which typically costs $50 to $150 without insurance depending on the provider.
3. Return to the MSHP station with the completed form, you cannot retest the same day without it.

A driver in Columbia failed the peripheral test, visited an optometrist the next day, and paid $75 for an exam. The doctor certified her vision met standards on Form 999. She returned to the MSHP station later that week and took the written test.

Call eye doctors ahead to confirm they fill out Form 999 and ask about cash prices. this saves you from bouncing between offices when you're already stressed about permit deadlines. That $50-$150 range is accurate, but shop around, some providers charge less for cash payments.

For corrected vision measuring 20/75 to 20/160, the Driver License Bureau reviews your Form 999 and decides whether to issue restrictions or deny your permit. You can submit completed Form 999 to Driver License Bureau, PO Box 200, Jefferson City, MO 65105 if mailing instead of delivering in person.

Can you retake the vision test after getting new glasses or contacts?

Yes. If correction improves your vision, return for another screening wearing the glasses or contacts you will use while driving. If MSHP refers you for additional vision review, complete the required eye-care documentation before returning.

What Do Missouri Permit Vision Restriction Codes A and C Mean?

Restrictions print directly on your permit based on your vision test results. Violating these codes can result in citations during traffic stops.

• Code A: Corrective Lenses required. You must wear glasses or contacts every time you drive.
• Code C: Daylight Driving Only, issued for corrected acuity between 20/41 and 20/59.
• Removing Code A after LASIK or other vision correction surgery requires retaking the vision test at a license office without lenses. If you pass, pay the duplicate license fee for a new card without the restriction.

Keep a spare pair of glasses in your car. Carry spare contacts too if you rely on them daily. If your primary pair breaks while you're out, you stay legal and dodge a violation citation for ignoring your restriction.