On January 2nd, Kentucky joined the majority of states requiring proof of good vision for driver’s license renewals. The General Assembly passed the law four years ago, but it didn’t go in effect until the beginning of the year. Department of Vehicle Regulation Commissioner Matt Cole said employees at regional driver’s licensing offices began training for it last July.
“It wasn't a big shock to the system. They were used to doing these transactions. Plus we added some additional staff to each location just to make sure that that new process was absorbed the way it was supposed to be, and not become an additional burden to our staffing.”
Cole said each site has a workaround for people who haven’t brought a form from an eye doctor.
“The little scanning machine that KSP used when you got your permit back when you were 16, we have the exact same equipment. It's the exact same standard. So anything that a young driver sees in KSP’s office is the exact same process that we offer in our office.”
Cole said the machines ensure drivers meet the minimum vision standard for driving. He said they have 100 of them in place now and more on order.
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