In recent years, many people have become interested in ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery as a way to enjoy life without glasses or contact lenses.
However, did you know that a minor but essential legal procedure is required after undergoing ICL surgery?
One such crucial task involves the optical restriction printed on your driver’s license.
In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner:
“What happens to your driver’s license after ICL surgery?”
“Do you need to update or renew it?”
What Happens to Your Driver’s License After ICL Surgery?
Driver’s licenses contain specific annotations regarding vision capabilities.
For example, individuals who cannot drive with uncorrected vision have a condition restriction stating “Corrective Lenses Required”.
This restriction implies that:
- ・Your vision does not meet the legal driving standard without corrective devices (glasses or contact lenses).
- ・You are legally obligated to wear corrective vision aids whenever operating a vehicle.
Once you undergo ICL surgery, your vision improves, allowing you to pass the vision test with unaided eyes. Consequently, the “Corrective Lenses Required” restriction is no longer necessary.
However, your license information is not updated automatically. If you do not process the change yourself after surgery, the restriction will remain printed on your license.
How Do You Update Your Driver’s License?
To remove the “Corrective Lenses Required” restriction after ICL surgery, you must apply for a “Restriction Removal” at a Driver’s License Testing Center or designated police station.
Procedure Steps:
1. Wait Until Your Post-Op Vision Stabilizes
Vision typically stabilizes within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery
Please follow your eye surgeon’s guidance
2. Apply & Take a Vision Test at a License Center or Police Station
Fill out the application form for restriction removal
Take a standard vision test using your uncorrected eyes.
| License Class | Passing Vision Standard |
|---|---|
| Standard Class 1 Motor Vehicle License | 0.7 (approx. 20/30) or better binocularly, and 0.3 (approx. 20/60) or better in each eye |
| Large Vehicle / Class 2 License | 0.8 (approx. 20/25) or better binocularly, and 0.5 (approx. 20/40) or better in each eye |
| Moped / Small Special Vehicle | 0.5 (approx. 20/40) or better binocularly |
| License Class | Passing Vision Standard |
|---|---|
| Standard Class 1 Motor Vehicle License | 0.7 (approx. 20/30) or better binocularly, and 0.3 (approx. 20/60) or better in each eye |
| Large Vehicle / Class 2 License | 0.8 (approx. 20/25) or better binocularly, and 0.5 (approx. 20/40) or better in each eye |
| Moped / Small Special Vehicle | 0.5 (approx. 20/40) or better binocularly |
3. Restriction Removal
- ・If your vision meets the legal standard, the restriction will be removed from your record
- ・An updated license or endorsement stamp will be issued on the spot
What to Bring:
- ・Your current driver’s license
- ・Personal seal / Hanko (if required in your municipality)
- ・Medical certificate or clinical record proving you underwent ICL surgery (not strictly mandatory, but helpful for a smooth process)
What Happens If You Don’t Update It?
You might think, “I can see clearly now, so why bother going to the license office?”
However, caution is required. If you drive without corrective lenses while the restriction is still active on your license, it constitutes a violation of driving conditions under the Road Traffic Act, which can result in penalties.
This is why it is essential to officially update your driver’s license restriction as soon as your vision stabilizes after ICL surgery.
Surgery Is Just the First Step—Post-Op Care Matters!
ICL surgery is a wonderful procedure that dramatically improves vision, but the journey doesn’t end in the operating room.
Proper post-operative care, along with fulfilling official requirements like updating your driver’s license, are all part of adjusting to your new life with clear vision.
If you already hold a driver’s license or plan to get one soon, keep in mind: “Once my vision improves, I must update my driver’s license too.”
Following official regulations is the first step toward safe driving.
Enjoy your bright, crystal-clear new vision!