South Carolina Beginner's Permit Vision Test: SCDMV Screening and Form 412-NC

South Carolina beginner's permit applicants must pass an SCDMV vision screening. This page explains the branch screen, what happens after a referral, and the low-vision pathway.

What vision standards does the SCDMV require for a beginner's permit?

At the SCDMV branch, the vision screen uses a 20/40 standard. If you do not pass the branch screen, SCDMV can refer you for a professional eye examination using Form 412-NC, which has separate evaluation criteria.

• To get a South Carolina beginner's permit, you must pass a vision screening.
• The branch screening standard is 20/40 or better.
• You must also have a continuous horizontal field of vision of at least 140 degrees.
• The 20/40 figure applies to the branch screening; a referred professional examination is evaluated under Form 412-NC.

• Testing with Glasses/Contacts: You must wear your corrective lenses during the eyesight test for a permit. If you pass with them, your permit will have a 'Corrective Lenses' restriction (Code B).
• Restricted License: If your vision is between 20/50 and 20/70, you may qualify for a permit with restrictions like 'Daylight Driving Only.'
• Monocular Vision: If one eye is severely impaired, the SCDMV will evaluate whether your better eye and overall visual field are sufficient to meet the 20/40 standard.

If you wear glasses, clean them thoroughly before your test. Smudges or dirt can cause you to misread letters on the vision machine, leading to an unnecessary failure and a long wait for a retest.

What happens if you fail the SCDMV vision test?

Failing the in-branch screening is not a final denial. The examiner gives you Form 412-NC for a licensed eye-care professional; the completed certificate is valid for 36 months from the examination date.

• Failing the initial screening is not a denial.
• The examiner will give you a Report of Vision Examination (Form 412-NC).
• You must take this form to a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist for a detailed eye exam.

• Where to Go: You can visit any licensed eye doctor in South Carolina. For example, an applicant in Greenville who failed the test at the Laurens Road branch went to a local optometrist on Woodruff Road to complete Form 412-NC.
• Exam Cost: A thorough vision exam for the DMV form typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the provider and whether you have vision insurance.
• Returning with Results: Bring the completed Form 412-NC back to the SCDMV. The certificate is valid for 36 months from the examination date. If the professional certifies that you meet the applicable standard, SCDMV can use the form for your vision review.

Example of a Retest: A Myrtle Beach teen forgot her glasses for her permit test at the 21st Avenue North office and failed. Her mother drove her home to get them, and they returned the same day. She retook the vision screening with her glasses and passed, receiving her permit with the corrective lenses restriction.

For South Carolina permit process details, see the South Carolina permit guide.

When Form 412-NC is needed before or after SCDMV screening

Usually no. Start with the SCDMV branch vision screen. Form 412-NC is used when SCDMV refers you for a professional eye examination.

Can you try again after getting new glasses or contacts?

Yes. If updated lenses improve your vision, follow the SCDMV referral or retest instructions. If Form 412-NC is required, the eye-care professional should complete it after the new lenses are fitted.

Corrective lenses and SCDMV permit restrictions

Yes, you can get a beginner's permit if you wear glasses or contacts. The SCDMV adds Restriction B to your permit, legally requiring you to wear them while driving.

Download Form 412-NC from the SCDMV website before your eye doctor appointment. Confirm the doctor will fill out the entire form, including the field of vision section. An incomplete form sent you back to the doctor's office, causing a week's delay for an applicant in Columbia.

Example of a Same-Day Fix: A Charleston applicant at the Lockwood Boulevard office failed the peripheral vision test on the machine. The examiner suspected he wasn't keeping his head still. He retook the test, focused on the center point without moving his eyes, and passed the field requirement on the second attempt.

What if your vision later improves and you want the corrective-lenses restriction changed? Have your vision reevaluated and ask SCDMV what documentation is needed to change the restriction. Keep following the restriction until SCDMV removes or changes it on your driving record.

Low vision and SCDMV's bioptic telescope program in South Carolina

If your best-corrected vision is between 20/80 and 20/200, you may qualify for the Bioptic Driver Training Program. This requires special certification using Form 412-LV and completion of training with a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist.

• Carrier Lens Vision: Must be at least 20/200 through the regular part of the glasses.
• Telescope Vision: Must be correctable to 20/40 or better through the bioptic telescope.

Example of a Specialist Path: A Spartanburg applicant with 20/100 vision failed the standard DMV test. He was referred to a low-vision specialist, who certified him for the bioptic program. After completing the required training, he passed his road test and received a restricted license.