Driving Licence Eye Test explained in detail:
What to expect at the DLTC

Before getting a South African driver’s licence, all learner’s must pass the DLTC eye test.

This vision test uses the forward and backward E chart to check eyesight clarity and safety. This is known as the “Landolt tumbling E style test” which is different to the full letters chart that you see at the optician.

1: The Test Chart

• Instead of full letters, you’ll see a block shaped letter “E” in different orientations:
•  Facing upwards (↑)
• Facing downwards (↓)
•  Facing Left (←)
•  Facing Right (→)

2: The Task

• You don’t have to name letters.
• You simply tell the examiner which way the “legs of the E” are pointing.
• Example: “Up”, “Down”, “Left”, “Right”.

3: The Procedure

• You’ll place your chin on a rest or look into a vision screener (a machine at the counter).
• Each eye is tested separately, then both together.
• The examiner flips through different lenses/settings to check your vision clarity.

4: What They’re Checking

• Visual acuity (sharpness of sight) – can you see the smallest “E” symbols?
• Peripheral vision – sometimes you’ll be asked to press a button or say when you see a light flicker on the sides.
• Depth & balance (in some machines) – checks if your eyes work together properly.

5: Pass Requirement

• You need at least 6/12 vision in one eye, or both eyes together, with or without glasses/contact lenses.
• If you need glasses to pass, it will be marked on your licence as a restriction.

So, the thing to remember is the forward and backward “E’s” are part of the eye test, along with “up” and “down” variations.

Do I have to take the eye test at the DLTC or can I bring a certificate?

Yes, absolutely you can bring a certificate, with this condition:
“The certificate must generally be no older than 3 months (90 days) on the day you apply for your learner’s or driver’s licence”