New driver licensing laws come into force next year that establish EU-wide standards for eyesight and minimum health requirements for certain drivers.

The new driving licence directive will affect drivers replacing, renewing or applying for new licences.

The changes will set minimum eyesight levels for drivers across all EU countries, as well as standardising at the health requirements of diabetic and epileptic drivers.

Currently there is no standard, meaning there are differing health and eyesight requirements from one EU country to another.

From next year, licence holders must “have a binocular visual acuity” meeting set standards, while diabetics will not be issued a licence if their condition is poorly controlled and epileptic drivers must be seizure-free for at least five years.

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