Driver License & ID Cards
Vision Requirement
In order to qualify for a driver license or motorcycle license, you must meet Minimum Visual Acuity Standards.
- The minimum vision for most drivers to qualify for an unrestricted license is 20/40.
- The minimum requirement for an unrestricted license is 70 degrees of side vision in each eye.
School Bus/CDL
Applicants must meet federal 391 standards if applying for a school bus endorsement or commercial driver license.
Ohio Revised Code: 4507.12
Ohio Administrative Code: 4501:1-1-20
Medical Restriction
If there is a medical and/or vision condition that may affect driving, a two-part driver license may be required. A two-part driver license includes:
- The driver license
- A medical restriction card indicating the driver's requirements that must be carried with the license
If a driver has an existing medical or vision condition, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will mail an Exam Station Request for Statement of Physician (form BMV 2310) 45-60 days before the driver's requirement is due. The form must be completed and signed by a doctor and returned to the BMV.
The BMV will mail the driver a new medical card and/or letter of instruction based on information listed on the form. If additional testing is required, the driver must take his or her letter of instruction to a driver exam station for testing. He or she also may be required to visit a deputy registrar license agency for a replacement license to be issued.
Where Do I Go?
- For testing, visit any driver exam station in Ohio.
- For issuance, visit any deputy registrar license agency in Ohio.
Physician Reporting
If a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant suspects or has concerns regarding one of their patient’s abilities to safely operate a motor vehicle due to a medical condition, they are encouraged to notify the Ohio BMV Special Case section with a letter that includes the following information:
- License holders name, address, phone number, date of birth
- Diagnosis/condition/reason for concern (i.e., Parkinson’s Disease, stroke, dementia, need for adaptive driving equipment etc.)
- License # or social security #
- Physician contact information (using formal letterhead is preferred).
After receiving the letter, the BMV will notify the license holder via mail that a Statement of Physician form (BMV 2310) is required. The BMV’s next steps are determined by this statement.
The reporting source remains anonymous per Section 4507.20 of the Ohio Revised Code in this instance The statement of a physician or medical provider is not a public record pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 4507.20.
The letter can be faxed to (614) 308-5211 or emailed to BMV2310@dps.ohio.gov.