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Low Vision

Bioptic Telescopic Lenses

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At Automobility, we evaluate and train individual's on how to use bioptic lenses while driving. ​​Bioptic lenses help people with low vision drive by allowing them to see distant objects, like road signs or traffic lights, more clearly.  We are dedicated to helping individuals with low vision regain their mobility and independence, ensuring safer and more confident driving with the use of bioptic lenses.

A woman wearing bioptic lenses driving a car

How Do Bioptics Work?

Bioptic lenses have two parts: the regular prescription lens (referred to as the carrier lens) for everyday vision and a small, magnifying lens that can be used when looking at things far away. When driving, the person uses the carrier lens most of the time. When they need to see something in detail in the distance, like a street sign or traffic signal, they look through the small magnifying part of the lens to get a clearer view. Bioptic lenses help drivers with limited vision meet the visual requirements needed for safe driving.

Who Might Be a Good Candidate For Bioptics?

Mild to moderate central vision loss from 20/60 to 20/200. Greater than 110 degrees of peripheral vision.

Diagnoses of: Albinism, mild dry macular degeneration, mild juvenile macular dystrophies, early stages of stargardt’s disease, best’s disease, mild optic atrophy and moderate histoplasmosis maculopathy. 

Adequate color vision: Drivers MUST be able to see brake lights, traffic lights and street signs.

Full visual fields

The Process of Becoming Licensed To Drive With Bioptics

1. Complete a consultation with a Low Vision Optometrist.

2. The Low Vision Optometrist will help you determine if you are eligible to meet Michigan's vision requirements for bioptic lenses.

  • If they determine you are eligible, they will prescribe, fit and provide initial education in the use of your bioptic telescope.

  • They will work with you to complete a Vision Specialist's Statement of Examination Form (DA-4V) and will refer you to a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist.

3. The Secretary of State Driver Assessment Section will review the completed DA-4V and may require that you will pass a written knowledge test to obtain a bioptic driving permit.

4. Once you obtain a permit, you will complete a comprehensive evaluation and all necessary training with a CDRS.

5. When training is completed successfully, your CDRS will assist you in submitting proof of program completion, along with their recommendations to the Secretary of State Driver Assessment Section.

6. You will then be schedule for a road test with SOS Driver Assessment. Once the road test is passed, you will be able to obtain licensure, which may include restrictions recommended by the low vision specialist or OT/CDRS or deemed necessary by the state analyst. SOS Driver Assessment makes the final determination regarding licensure.

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Vision Requirements To Drive With
Bioptic Lenses In Michigan

  • Visual Acuity: 20/40 in the better eye, with or without corrective lenses.  

  • 20/70 in the better eye with restrictions (daylight only). 

  • 20/60 if progressive abnormalities or diseases of the eye.

  • Visual Field: Binocular field of vision 140 degrees.

  • Binocular field of vision between 90 and 140 degrees with restrictions.

  • Bioptic telescopes are permitted to meet visual acuity standards. Carrier acuity of 20/200 or better and telescope acuity of 20/40 to 20/70.

  • Certification of the driver training is required.

Resources

Glasses Fitting

Where To Get Prescribed Bioptic Lenses

Low Vision Specialists in Michigan:

  • Grand Rapids: West Michigan Eyecare Associates

    • Dr. Laura Kenyon

    • Dr. Cynthia Geneva

  • Grand Rapids: Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired

  • Livonia, Grosse Pointe, Sterling Heights: Henry Ford Center for Vision Rehabilitation and Research

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