Many contact lens wearers wonder whether it is safe to drive while wearing their lenses. The short answer is yes — but there are a few important things to be aware of to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Is it legal to drive with contact lenses?
Yes, driving with contact lenses is perfectly legal, provided your vision meets the required standard for driving. In Ireland, drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. If you need corrective lenses to meet this standard, you are legally required to wear them when driving — and contact lenses count.
Contact lenses vs glasses for driving
Contact lenses offer some advantages over glasses when driving. They provide a wider, unobstructed field of vision with no frames to limit what you can see at the edges. They also don’t fog up or get splashed by rain the way glasses can, and they don’t cause reflections or distortions at night.
For many drivers, contact lenses feel more comfortable and natural behind the wheel, particularly on long journeys.
Things to watch out for
Dry eyes
Long drives, air conditioning, and staring at the road for extended periods can all cause dry eyes — a common issue for contact lens wearers. Dry eyes can make lenses uncomfortable and affect your vision. Use lubricating eye drops approved for use with contact lenses, take regular breaks on long journeys, and ensure your car’s air vents aren’t blowing directly at your face.
Night driving
Some contact lens wearers notice increased glare or haloes around lights when driving at night. If this is something you experience regularly, speak to your optician — they may recommend a different lens type or suggest wearing glasses for night driving instead.
Lens wear time
Always wear your contact lenses within the recommended wear time. Wearing lenses for too long increases the risk of discomfort and eye infections. If you’re heading out on a long drive, consider whether daily disposable lenses might be the most convenient option.
UV protection
Driving exposes your eyes to sunlight, especially on bright days. Some contact lenses offer UV protection, but they don’t cover the whole eye. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection over your lenses provides added protection for your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
Tips for contact lens wearers who drive
- Always carry a spare pair of glasses in the car in case your lenses become uncomfortable
- Keep lubricating eye drops in your glove compartment
- Never try to remove or adjust your lenses while driving
- Take regular breaks on long journeys to rest your eyes
- Wear quality sunglasses on bright days
Driving with contact lenses is safe for the vast majority of wearers. Follow the guidelines above and keep up with regular eye tests to ensure your vision remains fit for driving.