Texas DPS Vision Test for Learner's Permit: 20/40 Minimum, DL-63 Referral, and Restriction A Explained

To get a Texas Learner License, you must pass the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) vision screening. The standards are defined in 37 Tex. Admin. Code 15.51.

Texas DPS Vision Standards for a Learner Permit

DPS checks visual acuity, peripheral vision, and color recognition. You need 20/40 vision or better in at least one eye. Your horizontal field must span 140 degrees combined.

Vision worse than 20/200, even with correction, is considered blind for licensing purposes. You can wear glasses or contacts during the test. Color blindness alone won't disqualify you if you can distinguish red, yellow, and green signals.

Glasses and Contacts: Restriction Code A Explained

Yes, you can get a learner permit while wearing corrective lenses. Wear them during your screening. If you pass with correction, your permit will carry Restriction A.

Driving without your glasses or contacts when Restriction A is on your license is illegal and can result in fines.

What if I forget my glasses or contacts at the DPS vision test?

If you normally need corrective lenses to meet the vision standard, bring them. A driver who qualifies only with correction can receive restriction A, which requires corrective lenses while driving. If the screening shows you need a more accurate vision measurement, DPS can refer you to an eye specialist.

What Happens If You Do Not Pass the Vision Screening

The vision screening happens during your DPS visit and usually takes only a few minutes. Bring the corrective lenses you normally use for distance vision.

Do not assume an actual failed acuity screening can be cleared by returning later the same day with different glasses. A failed standard can trigger the DL-63 specialist-referral process.

When exactly is Form DL-63 required after a failed vision screening?

DPS uses DL-63 when an applicant fails the required acuity screening or needs a more accurate vision measurement. An eye specialist completes the report, and DPS uses that information when deciding whether the applicant qualifies and whether a restriction is needed. See Form DL-63.

Can an eye specialist recommend driving restrictions instead of denying a license? Yes. DL-63 specifically allows recommendations such as corrective lenses or daylight-only driving. DPS makes the final licensing decision and places any required restriction on the credential.

Color Vision and Peripheral Vision Requirements

If you do not pass the screening, DPS will not issue the permit. They will give you a Report of Vision Examination (Form DL-63).

You must take the DL-63 form to a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist for a full vision exam. The cost varies by provider but typically ranges from $50 to $150 without insurance.

• Complete the DL-63 eye-specialist referral before returning for the required follow-up
• Schedule an eye exam within 48 hours of failing to minimize your delay
• Bring your new prescription glasses when you return to DPS for a retest

After failing in Austin, Jake visited an optometrist on South Lamar, paid $75 for an exam, got a new prescription, and had the DL-63 form completed. He returned to the DPS office two days later with his new glasses and passed the screening immediately.

Schedule a backup eye exam before your DPS appointment if you suspect your vision has changed. This prepares you to quickly get the DL-63 form filled if you fail, avoiding a multi-week delay that pushes back your entire licensing timeline and practice hours.

Practical Tips for the Vision Screening Station

Passing with glasses results in Restriction A on your permit. To remove it later (for example, after LASIK surgery), you must retake the DPS vision test without correction and pay an $11 replacement fee.

The learner license fee is $16. You must also pass the written knowledge exam. Review traffic rules in the Texas Driver Handbook before your test.

Double-check that your full name on your proof of identity documents matches exactly what you write on the application form for your age (DL-14B if under 17 years 10 months, or DL-14A if 17 years 10 months or older). A mismatch is a common reason for immediate rejection and having to reschedule.

Once you have your permit, complete your required practice hours with a licensed supervisor before scheduling your driving test.