Eye stuff
 

Just a general question before shelling out 400 smackers for a class 1, i currently can see perfectly but i can't read stuff at distance without glasses say.. a car number plate 50m+ in front, this is the effect a computer has on your eyes. :( Anyway could this hamper my chances of gaining a class 1 ? Anything close up i can see and read perfectly. I'm also considering an opticians advice on this with the CAA limitations at hand.

If you have to be anything, it’s best to be short sighted when you are young. It usually improves with age.

The first thing to do is have an ordinary eye test so that the error is quantified. Note in particular the astigmatism reading.

If you do a search on this section for the actual requirements, you will be able to make a judgment based on the fact that it is unlikely to worsen if there is nothing else wrong. Obviously check for diabetes etc. before shelling out the £400

The amount of allowable correction is quite high.

I'm usually rather skeptical about improving vision with exercise, but in your case, spending time teasing the focus out more and more will no doubt help. Don’t overdo it!!

Also, if you are concerned about the eyesight aspects of the Class One, the CAA at Gatwick are quite happy to assess that first, and if unsatisfactory will only charge you for that portion of the medical - not the full £400.

Phone them up and ask - they are in fact extremely helpful and pragmatic, in my experience.

Certainly speak to your optician first for his opinion on you c.f. the guidance from the CAA's website.

Thanks guys i've booked an appointment with an optician, also let them know of the CAA limits and it sounds like i'll be fine.
Cheers :)