§ 16-110.2. Vision requirements -- Bioptic telescopic lenses

MD Transp Code § 16-110.2 (2019) (N/A)
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(a)    In this section, “bioptic telescopic lens” means a spectacle mounted telescopic/telescopics telescope placed at the top of a corrective vision lens and designed to increase visual acuity and aid in spotting distant objects at a glance.

(b)    Notwithstanding any other requirements under this subtitle, an applicant using bioptic telescopic lenses shall be eligible for a noncommercial Class C driver’s license under this subtitle if the applicant:

(1)    (i)    Demonstrates a visual acuity of at least 20/100 in one or both eyes and a field of 150 degrees horizontal vision with or without corrective lenses; or

(ii)    If the applicant has vision in one eye only, demonstrates a field of at least 100 degrees horizontal vision;

(2)    Demonstrates a visual acuity of at least 20/70 in one or both eyes with the bioptic telescopic lenses and without the use of field expanders;

(3)    Submits a report of examination by a licensed ophthalmologist or optometrist for evaluation by the Medical Advisory Board under § 16–118 of this subtitle; and

(4)    Meets all the other requirements for licensure under this title.

(c)    An applicant using bioptic telescopic lenses shall be eligible for a learner’s instructional permit under § 16–103 of this subtitle if the applicant meets the requirements of subsection (b) of this section.

(d)    (1)    Except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, a license issued in compliance with this section authorizes the licensee to operate a motor vehicle only during the period beginning one–half hour after sunrise and ending one–half hour before sunset.

(2)    If the applicant is eligible for a license under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Administration shall issue to the applicant a restricted license endorsed “daylight driving only”.

(e)    A licensee under this section may operate a motor vehicle without any restriction regarding hours of operation if the licensee:

(1)    Demonstrates a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in one or both eyes with the bioptic telescopic lenses and without the use of field expanders;

(2)    Has been licensed under this section for at least one year; and

(3)    Passes a skills test taken at night.

(f)    This section only applies to an applicant who:

(1)    Is granted a license under this section on or before September 30, 1997; and

(2)    Continues to qualify for a license under this section.