If you've tried renewing a driver's license, you know it sometimes comes with long lines, fees, and hard to find documents. But starting Jan. 1, 2025, there will be another step in the process you'll need to keep in mind.
A law passed in 2021 required drivers to complete an eye exam when renewing their license, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet says the law will be fully implemented at the start of the new year.
"This is part of the exam, it's a refraction," Dr. Mark Ihnen said. He believes the exam is easy and makes him feel safer on the road. "I'll sure feel a lot better on the roadways knowing everyone has mandated an annual visual checkup."
If you fail the vision test when renewing your driver's license, you'll need to see a specialist, like Ihnen. He'll check if you need glasses and if that means you need to have a restricted license.
"It's a typical eye exam, nothing that you wouldn't normally do at your doctors office," he explained.
Brandi Allen, with the Regional Licensing Driver's Office in west Louisville, said she's happy about the change because everyone should be able to see when they're driving. She hopes the law will also cut down on wrecks.
"I really think it's [also] good for me 'cause I can't see at night," she added. "I stop in the middle of the street thinking the stop light is right there but it's all the way over there, so it's really good for me."
The requirement is already in effect across the river in Indiana and Ohio.
If a driver fails the test when renewing their license, they can file a protest up to twenty days after.
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