6/6 vision is the metric equivalent of 20/20 vision. It means you can see at six metres what a person with standard eyesight should see at that distance.
Understanding the numbers
Many countries, including the UK, use metres rather than feet in testing. The first number is the testing distance, and the second reflects the smallest line you can read.
- 6/6 represents normal sharp distance vision.
- 6/12 means you must stand at six metres to see what others see at twelve.
- Some people achieve 6/5 or better, which is sharper than average.
- Refractive errors and eye disease can reduce these scores.
- Results may differ slightly between clinics due to chart design.
Why 6/6 matters
6/6 or better in at least one eye usually meets driving standards. However, overall eye health and visual fields remain just as important.
- Glasses or contact lenses may restore 6/6 in many cases.
- If vision stays below 6/6 with correction, further tests are needed.
- Regular eye exams help maintain safe vision for work and hobbies.
- Lighting, contrast, and glare sensitivity also affect real-world seeing.
- Share any difficulties, such as night driving, with your clinician.
