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Automated Driver's License Test, Computerized Vision Test, and the Real ID Act

This study highlights the importance of automated testing techniques and the significance of vision screening measures other than static visual acuity testing for assessing all drivers and, in particular, at-risk drivers and older drivers. Non-automated tests tend to be subjective, time-consuming, costly, and heavily reliant on the experience of the examiner. Results of a global survey of motor vehicle bureau directors or their representatives of the United States, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia are presented. Accident analyses over an eleven-year period are also performed and evaluated. In order to improve safety and reduce the disproportionate number of traffic fatalities and injuries, it is recommended that drivers of all ages be periodically tested through a newly designed computerized system for vision, cognition, knowledge, and motor vehicle operation skills. These automated systems and methodologies may ultimately serve as a prototype of transportation license testing improvements for all other states, countries, and agencies (e.g., aviation, rail, maritime, commercial vehicles, etc.) to follow. Such simulations and techniques may not only reduce the incidence of fraudulent schemes and issuances of driver's licenses, commercial driver's licenses, and hazardous materials transportation licenses, but may also aid in the implementation of a National Driver's License in accordance with the Real ID Act.