Contact lenses for police officers

Most municipalities require that police officer applicants have a minimum level of uncorrected visual acuity. The primary basis for the uncorrected acuity standards is that an officer can have spectacles forcibly removed and would need a minimum level of vision to continue performing his/her duties. This article discusses the pros and cons of allowing contact lens wearers to bypass the uncorrected visual acuity standard. Although there are several factors that can make the contact lens wearer a less desirable recruit, a good contact lens wearer who doesn't meet the uncorrected standard could safely and efficiently perform the duties of a police officer. It is recommended that a municipality may consider waiving the uncorrected visual acuity standard for a good contact lens wearing candidate. Suggested guidelines for implementing this policy are discussed.