What is 20/20 vision?

What is 20/20 vision?

'20/20 vision' is a term used to describe normal distance vision.

What does the '20' stand for?

The '20' is a distance of 20 feet, which is a standard testing distance for eyesight, used by Optometrists and Doctors.

How does that indicate how my vision is?

If you have 20/20 vision, you can see clearly at 20 feet what should be seen at that distance with normal vision. If you have 20/40 vision, it means that you must be as close as 20 feet to see what a person with normal vision can see at 40 feet.

If I can see 20/20, does that mean I have perfect vision?

No. It means you have normal vision. Some people are born with exceptional vision which has been measured at 20/10 (which means that a person with normal vision would have to stand 10 feet away to see what they can see at 20 feet)!

My Optometrist told me I have 6/6 vision. What is that?

In Australia, and most metric countries, the '6' stands for '6' metres, rather than 20 feet. The scale is the same otherewise.

I have trouble reading, but my Optometrist told me I have 20/20 vision?

That could be right. The 20/20 scale of vision only refers to distance vision, and is not an indicator of near vision.

Do I have to have 20/20 vision to drive?

No. In Australia, the minimum requirement to drive a car is 20/40 vision with both eyes open. You can check yourself now with the online driving check.

Check your vision now, with the online eye test.