Can police require you to read a number plate during a roadside eyesight check in Northern Ireland?

Yes. Police can require a driver to demonstrate that they meet the legal eyesight standard.

The NI Highway Code requires drivers to read a vehicle number plate from 20 metres in good daylight, or 20.5 metres for the older style of plate. If glasses or contact lenses are needed to meet that standard, they must be worn while driving. A recent eye test is useful, but does not replace the legal requirement to see properly at the wheel. If you cannot meet it, stop driving and arrange an eye examination.