Glasses under scrutiny: Congress backs tougher checks on cheap spectacles for driving

Spanish lawmakers have approved a proposal to tighten regulations on the sale of inexpensive ready-made glasses, including those purchased online or from non-specialist retailers. The decision, backed by the Socialist parliamentary group, received strong support from the Congress of Deputies on May 26. The proposal aims to increase inspections and monitoring of optical products, including ready-made glasses, prescription glasses, and contact lenses sold outside specialist healthcare establishments.

The government will work with regional authorities and European institutions to ensure these products are stored, handled, and sold in safe conditions. The initiative also addresses concerns about prescription glasses and contact lenses bought online without proper professional assessment. While the new rules do not outright ban ready-made glasses or make them illegal to purchase outside opticians, they highlight the need for stronger oversight.

Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic has previously warned that ready-made glasses are not suitable for driving, as they are designed for close-up vision and may not correct distance vision, astigmatism, or differences between the two eyes. Drivers who need corrective lenses must adhere to the conditions recorded on their license.

The new parliamentary decision does not create a new driving offense or impose automatic fines for wearing ready-made spectacles, but it puts pressure on the government to enhance consumer protection for optical products sold to the public.