What it is
Occupational color vision testing is an evaluation of how a person sees and tells apart colors, done because a job, training program or license asks for it. It is sometimes called pre-employment color vision testing or a color vision certification exam.
Some roles rely on color for safety or accuracy, such as reading wiring, signals, lights, charts, displays or warning indicators. Employers and agencies may therefore ask applicants to show they meet a certain standard.
The tests used, the pass or fail rules and any allowed alternatives differ by employer, licensing body and agency, and they can change over time. This site does not set or interpret those standards.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Color vision screening has traditionally used printed plate tests, arrangement tests and other tools in which a person identifies numbers, patterns or color order. Some settings also use computer-based tests or practical tests, such as identifying signal lights or color-coded items.
Which test is accepted depends on who is asking. One employer may accept a certain screening test, while a licensing body may require a specific test, a particular setting or a form completed by a licensed professional.
Some people who do not pass an initial screening are offered a different accepted test or a review process. Whether that is possible, and what it involves, depends entirely on the specific agency or employer.
How the right doctor may help
The right provider, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist who does color vision testing, may be able to explain your type of color vision difference (protan, deutan or tritan) and its severity. A visit generally includes a conversation about your history and goals, a vision exam and one or more color vision tests.
If a licensing body or employer requires paperwork, a provider may be able to complete forms or write a testing letter describing the results. Whether that letter is accepted is up to the organization asking for it, so it helps to find out in advance what exactly they want.
Good questions to ask: Which tests do you offer, and are they the ones my employer or agency accepts? Can you provide documentation in the format required? What does my result mean for daily life? What is the regulatory status of any color-enhancing glasses or lenses, and are they allowed for my situation? Color-enhancing filter glasses and contact lenses do not cure color blindness or restore normal color vision, and how they work varies by type and severity. Some testing authorities may not permit them during an exam, so check first.
The whole-person view
Seeing the world is a whole-person experience. Worry about a job, a license or a test can raise stress, and stress can affect sleep, focus and how a person feels in their body. Rested, calm and well-prepared people often find the process easier to handle.
If the outcome feels discouraging, support may help. Somatic Experiences practitioners offer body-based support for stress, and Therapists.plus can connect you with talk therapy for career worries and big life changes. No approach is better than another, and many people use a mix.
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician can evaluate your vision and decide what is appropriate for you.
- Color vision standards for aviation, military, law enforcement, commercial driving, electrical trades, maritime and other work vary by employer and authority and change over time. Confirm current requirements with the specific employer, licensing body or agency.
- Color-enhancing glasses and contact lenses do not cure color blindness or restore normal color vision, and they may not be accepted for testing or work. Ask a provider and the requesting organization.
- Licensed professionals should guide care. For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
Standards are set by the employer, licensing body or agency, not by this site — confirm current requirements directly with them.
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Frequently asked questions
What is occupational color vision testing?
Occupational color vision testing is an evaluation of how well you tell colors apart, done to meet a job, training or licensing requirement. It may use plate tests, arrangement tests, computer tests or practical tasks. The exact test depends on the employer or agency asking.
Do I need color vision testing to become a pilot?
Many aviation authorities require some form of color vision evaluation, but the specific tests and rules vary by country, certificate type and over time. Check current requirements with the aviation authority or the medical examiner it designates before you plan or pay for training.
Can color blind glasses help me pass a color vision test?
Not reliably, and you should not assume so. Color blind glasses, meaning color-enhancing filter glasses, do not cure color blindness or restore normal color vision, and results vary by type (protan, deutan or tritan) and severity. Many testing bodies do not allow them during an exam, so ask the agency and a provider first.
Who can write a color vision testing letter for a licensing body?
A licensed eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, can generally document test results in a letter or form. Whether it is accepted depends on the licensing body, which may require specific tests or its own forms. Ask the body what it needs before your appointment.
Are electrician, commercial driver and police color vision requirements the same?
No. Each employer, licensing body or agency sets its own rules, and these can differ by location and change over time. Contact the specific employer or agency to confirm what is currently required for your role.
What if I don't pass a pre-employment color vision test?
A result on one test is not always the end of the process, but options depend on the employer or agency. Some offer other accepted tests or a review process, and others do not. Ask them what is available, and talk with an eye care provider about your results.
Educational resource. Colorblind Glasses shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.