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Limited Vision Condition Program: Bioptic Lens Adaptive Device Drivers


Oregon state law provides an opportunity for persons with limited vision condition who use a bioptic telescopic lens to be eligible for restricted driving privileges.  Successful applicants must:

  • Meet vision requirements (see Eligibility);
  • Use a professionally installed Bioptic Telescopic Lens adaptive device (see Limited Vision Condition Driving Privileges); and
  • Successfully complete specialized training (see Getting Licensed).

An applicant’s vision must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Oregon driving privileges under the Limited Vision Condition Program:
  • Visual acuity in the better eye with best lens correction no better than 20/80 and no worse than 20/200;
  • A visual field of at least 120 degrees horizontally and 80 degrees vertically;
  • No ocular diagnosis or prognosis that may result in deterioration of your corrected vision below 20/200; and
  • Vision would be helped by using a bioptic telescopic lens when driving.

Successful applicants receive a standard Class C non-commercial license​ (or instruction permit) with the following restrictions:
  • Driving only when using a bioptic telescopic lens.  The bioptic lens must be mounted on the carrier lens by the vision specialist who certifies your vision meets eligibility.
  • Driving during daylight hours only.
  • ​​The daylight restriction can be removed when the successful applicant:
    • Submits a report to DMV from a vision specialist indicating that the person’s vision does not prevent or prohibit safe operation of a motor vehicle at night; and
    • Provides a certificate from a rehabilitation training specialist stating the person has successfully completed nighttime training and can safely operate a motor vehicle at night.

For licensure under this program, the applicant must: 

Submit a report to DMV from a vision specialist indicating that the person’s vision meets the program’s criteria to be licensed.

  • Be fitted by a licensed vision specialist with a bioptic telescopic lens mounted on the carrier lens.
  • Pass DMV’s knowledge test.
  • Receive a special Limited Vision Condition Learner’s Permit from DMV for use during driver training.
  • Enroll in and successfully complete a rehabilitation training program offered by one of the specialists certified by DMV to train in the use of bioptic telescopic lens while driving:
​Jeff T. Lango
Alpine Rehab and Wellness
5933 NE Win Sivers Dr
Portland, OR 97220
503-249-3220
​Judy Ode
Umpqua Community College
2555 Diamond Lake Blvd
Roseburg, OR 97470
541-440-7691
​Sharon Rothacker
Umpqua Community College
2555 Diamond Lake Blvd
Roseburg, OR 97470
541-440-7691
  • Submit a certificate issued by the rehabilitation training specialist to DMV certifying successful completion of the rehabilitation training program.
  • Pass a DMV-provided drive test. To schedule, call: 503-945-5523.

​Other Requirements:

  • You cannot be suspended, cancelled, or revoked in Oregon or any other state.
  • You must:
    • Turn in any driver license or permit from another state or country, if you have one; and
    • Turn in any driver license or ID card you have from Oregon; and
    • Provide a new certification from a licensed vision specialist every two years.

For drivers under 18 years of age – contact Driver Specialty Services: 503-945-5083 to learn how to be considered for licensure under this program.


There are several fees to be aware of, including:
  • Class C Knowledge Test - $5.00
  • Special limited condition learner’s permit - $13.00
  • Class C Instruction Permit - $23.50 (if applicable)
  • Class C Drive Test - $9.00
  • Class C License - $60.00 (if applicable)
Note: There is also a fee associated with the Rehabilitation Training.  Check with the training provider.​

  • Your license will be mailed to you. You will receive an interim card to use as proof of driving privileges until your license arrives.
  • The Post Office will only deliver your license to the address printed on the envelope. Be sure you give DMV the address where you get your mail.
  • Photo Rules - items are not allowed in a photo include anything that covers your face or changes your appearance including:
    • Eyeglasses or Sunglasses;
    • Hat or head covering (other than religious);
    • Contacts that change the appearance of the iris;
    • Face paint; and
    • Stickers or bandages.
  • Renewal is required every two years with a Certificate of Vision.  Notification is sent with a blank Certificate of Vision form to be completed by the license holder’s vision care ophthalmologist or optometrist.  Testing is no longer part of the renewal requirement, effective January 1, 2021.
  • For more information:  Call Driver Specialty Services at: 503-945-5083.
 




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