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The eyesight check is the first thing the examiner does. Failing it ends the test before it starts. Here's the exact standard required.
Before the driving test begins, the examiner will ask you to read a number plate from a set distance. If you cannot do this correctly, the test ends immediately. This is the only part of the test that results in an automatic termination without driving.
You must be able to read a standard UK number plate (new style: 79.4mm characters) from a distance of 20 metres. For older-style plates (narrower characters), the distance is 20.5 metres. The examiner sets the distance and asks you to read the plate. You have one attempt with both eyes open (glasses or contacts are fine to wear).
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