The Estermann Test

[Biccylova]

Have any of you folks had this test? what does it consist of? and can any optician do it or must the D.V.L.A. stipulate who does it? oh may have to do this in the near future and is worried about it.

[Sycamore3House]

Any optician with the correct equipment can perform the test. The DVLA have nominated opticians that carry out the tests on their behalf. It is the DVLA that decide the outcome not the optician. I have had the tests and it consists of looking straight ahead & small lights illuminating all around your peripheral vision & you press a button when you see one. There is an area in degrees that you need to see to enable you to hold a driving licence.

[Biccylova]

Thanks sycamore, sounds easy enough so fingers crossed.

[marval]

I do that test at Specsavers, as part of my normal eye test.

[masterchef]

That is called a Field Test, used to test for Glaucoma which affects your field of vision.

[Biccylova]

Thanks to you all, can't make out why I never heard of this test before.

[woolly17]

I have to renew my driving licence every three years as I'm diabetic, and I've done this test twice so far, though I didn't know it was called an Estermann Test. First time I thought I did quite badly, but passed; nevertheless a bit worried about another test this year - eyesight doesn't normally improve with age - but found it easier this time, and was very pleased to pass again, missing just two of the 120 light flashes. Test this year was at Specsavers (who apparently now do all of these tests for the DVLA), using Humphrey 740i test equipment, so I'd say go for the Humphrey if you have a choice, 'cos it seems to make the test a bit easier.

[Biccylova]

Strange that I have never been told to have this test and I have been insulin dependent for forty years, I must ask about it next time I go for an eyesight check.