Montana Permit Vision Requirements: Vision Test, Corrective Lenses and Retesting

Montana requires at least 20/40 visual acuity in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. Depending on the rest of the vision screening, MVD may issue a restriction or require further evaluation. Peripheral vision, depth perception, and color recognition tests are also mandatory.

Montana's Vision Standards and How the Screening Works

At the exam station, Montana MVD screens visual acuity and other vision elements used in its licensing process. The screening may use standard vision-testing equipment or charts, and the result can lead to corrective-lens restrictions or further evaluation when needed.

• Visual Acuity: Requires at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses.
• Corrective Lenses Allowed: Wear glasses or contacts during testing. Passing with corrective lenses adds Restriction B requirement.
• Peripheral Vision: Must demonstrate at least 140 degrees of horizontal field of view.
• Additional Testing: Depth perception and color recognition for traffic signals are evaluated.

Testing follows Montana's official vision test rules with specific requirements for each visual function.

Can I pass the Montana vision test if only one eye meets 20/40?

Yes. Montana's basic screening standard is at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. A separate vision problem can still lead to a restriction or an eye-specialist review.

Does Montana test peripheral vision for a learner permit? Peripheral or field-of-vision problems can be part of MVD's vision review. If the screening raises a concern, MVD may require more detailed information from an eye specialist.

When does Montana require an Eye Evaluation form?

MVD uses Form 22-1801 when it needs an eye specialist to document issues such as visual acuity, corrective lenses, double vision, eye disease or injury, night vision, or ongoing monitoring.

Can a corrective-lens restriction be removed later if my vision improves?

It is not removed automatically. If your vision changes, contact MVD before driving without the required lenses. MVD may require a new vision check or updated eye evaluation before changing the restriction.

Glasses, Contacts and Corrective-Lens Restrictions

Wear your current prescription glasses or contacts to the Montana MVD appointment. Passing the 20/40 test with corrective lenses earns permit approval with Restriction B, which legally requires lenses whenever you drive.

At Missoula MVD, glasses left at home meant the clerk wouldn't allow retrieval once check-in began. Failed vision test; returned the next morning with glasses and passed. Montana allows a next-day retest for vision, same-day retrieval mid-process isn't permitted.

• Present yourself with glasses or contacts at the testing station
• Meeting the 20/40 standard while wearing corrective lenses results in permit approval
• Your permit will include Restriction B, legally requiring corrective lenses while driving

Failed the 20/40 Line: What MVD Does Next

Failing the 20/40 line at a Montana MVD exam station means immediate permit denial for that appointment. The examiner gives you Form 22-1801, which a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist must complete before you can return.

1. Receive Form 22-1801 (Eye Evaluation) for completion by a licensed eye care professional
2. Schedule full eye exam with optometrist or ophthalmologist
3. Submit completed form showing corrected vision meets standards (20/70 or better minimum)

An applicant in Great Falls scored 20/50 on the MVD machine. His outside eye exam confirmed 20/30 vision with updated prescription. He returned with Form 22-1801 and passed.

Download the official Eye Evaluation Form 22-1801 to preview requirements before your exam. Additional Montana driver license forms are available for various permit situations.

When and Where to Complete Form 22-1801

Any licensed Montana optometrist or ophthalmologist can complete Form 22-1801 for a full eye exam costing $50 to $150. Retail vision chains such as LensCrafters cannot perform the required 140-degree peripheral field test. Failed MVD screening requires professional eye examination from licensed practitioners. Using a basic-screening-only provider can force a second visit to a full-service optometrist.

• Licensed Providers: Any Montana optometrist (OD) or ophthalmologist (MD) can complete Form 22-1801
• Examination Cost: full eye exams range from $50 to $150 depending on provider and location
• Same-Day Testing: MVD policy requires the completed form for confirmed failures. Simple forgotten glasses may allow same-day retest

The peripheral vision test alone trips up plenty of applicants.

Avoid Same-Day Failures: What to Check Before You Go

Before the appointment, wear your current prescription lenses—not reading glasses or an old pair—confirm your eye doctor performs the complete 140-degree peripheral field test, and book the Montana MVD appointment at least three weeks ahead to reduce scheduling delays.

Review the Montana Driver Manual vision section for complete requirements before your appointment.

Consider visiting Montana's learner permit guide to prepare steps beyond vision testing. Review Montana driver restrictions to understand all permit limitations.