Journal of Neuro-Ophthalmology, June 2010, Volume 30, Issue 2

Vision and Driving: Canada

Supported by the findings of a major review of vision standards for driving in Canada, the Canadian Ophthalmological Society's Committee on Vision Standards for Driving issued a series of recommendations in 2000 to the Canadian Medical Association. Many of these recommendations, including changes in visual acuity and visual field standards and consideration for exceptional cases, have been implemented across Canada. Canadian courts have stated that it is important to provide on-road assessments for visually impaired individuals who wish to continue driving. Most Canadian provinces and territories will allow visually impaired drivers a license if they pass the test. However, these on-road assessments use scarce resources and may be expensive for the driver. Limited licensure is a widespread practice, but whether it effectively protects drivers is not established. Except for Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, all Canadian provinces and territories have legislated mandatory reporting of visually impaired drivers by vision care providers.