Driving without glasses despite a mandatory requirement on your license: Strict penalties under German law
In Germany, wearing prescription glasses or corrective contact lenses while driving is a legally binding requirement if it is recorded on your driver’s license. Ignoring this requirement is not merely a minor offense; it is considered a direct threat to road safety and may lead to penalties that can include license withdrawal and penalty points in Flensburg.
What does the glasses requirement on the license mean?
As part of obtaining a German driver’s license, an eyesight test determines whether the applicant meets the minimum visual acuity. If a person cannot reach the required minimum without assistance, a mandatory note is added in field “12” of the license, such as:
Sehhilfe erforderlich or
Code 01.01 (glasses) or 01.02 (contact lenses)
This becomes a legally binding condition to use glasses/lenses while driving.
What happens if you drive without glasses despite the requirement?
Driving without glasses or contact lenses, despite the condition on the license, is a traffic-law violation under, among others:
§ 23 StVO (rules of conduct while driving)
§ 75 FeV (driver licensing regulations)
§ 25 StVG (especially in accident cases)
Legal consequences:
| Violation | Fine | Points | Additional notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving without glasses despite a license condition | €25 | 0 | Minor offense if no damage occurs |
| If you cause an accident | up to 90 daily rates | 1–2 points in Flensburg | May include license withdrawal or a driving ban |
| Repeated offense or injuries | possible criminal proceedings | May lead up to permanent revocation | Based on police and medical reports |
Why is this taken so seriously?
German authorities may view such behavior as unreliability in traffic matters (Unzuverlässigkeit), which can justify administrative measures up to temporary license withdrawal until safe driving ability is proven again.
In addition, your car insurance may refuse coverage or reduce it if it is proven you drove without the required visual aid, exposing you to personal liability (Haftung).
How does the police detect this violation?
During a routine check, an officer may examine your license and notice code “01.01”. If you are not wearing glasses or lenses, a penalty may be issued immediately. If an accident occurs, this can become a legal indicator against you and will be added to the investigation file.
Can the glasses requirement be removed from the license?
Yes. If you undergo vision correction (such as LASIK) or your eyesight changes, you can obtain a new eyesight test and official medical confirmation, then submit it to the licensing authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehörde) to update your license data and remove the code—usually after a comprehensive examination by an approved ophthalmologist.
Conclusion
Driving without glasses when they are mandatory on your license is not just “forgetting”—it is a legal violation that endangers you and others. German law clearly links driving fitness to the conditions stated on your license. The solution is simple: wear your glasses/lenses, or update your license if your medical situation has changed.
— The website’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and reviewing multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may remain unconfirmed. Please treat the information as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
