Near visual acuity that does not correct to an acceptable standard
Near visual acuity that does not correct to an acceptable standard
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D155.50 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to near visual acuity that does not correct to an acceptable standard do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“Current near visual acuity of any degree that does not correct with spectacle lenses to at least 20/40 in the better eye.”
“Current distant visual acuity of any degree that does not correct with spectacle lenses to at least 20/40 in each eye.”
“Miscellaneous Defects and Diseases. (1) History of abnormal visual fields. (2) Absence of an eye. (3) History of disorders of globe. (4) Current unilateral or bilateral exophthalmoses. (5) History of glaucoma, ocular hypertension, pre-glaucoma, or glaucoma suspect. (6) Any abnormal pupillary reaction to light or accommodation. (7) Asymmetry of pupil size greater than 2 mm. (8) Current night blindness. (9) History of intraocular foreign body, or current corneal foreign body. (10) History of ocular tumors. (11) History of any abnormality of the eye or adnexa, not specified in Paragraphs 6.3.h.(1)-(10), which threatens vision or visual function.”
“Ocular Mobility and Motility. (1) Current or recurrent diplopia. (2) Current nystagmus other than physiologic "end-point nystagmus." (3) Strabismus, if any of the conditions in Paragraphs 6.3.g.(a)-(d) apply: (a) Esotropia more than 15 prism diopters; (b) Exotropia more than 10 prism diopters; (c) Hypertropia more than 5 prism diopters; or (d) Strabismus resulting in posturing (head tilt or turn), diplopia, or correctable vision that does not meet the applicable standards for enlistment or commission. (4) History of restrictive ophthalmopathies.”
“Current refractive error (hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism) in excess of -8.00 or +8.00 diopters spherical equivalent or astigmatism in excess of 3.00 diopters.”
Waiver Outlook for Vision & Eyes Conditions
Key Factors for Waiver Approval
- Visual acuity correctable to within military standards with glasses or contacts
- Stable refraction with no progressive deterioration over time
- No history of refractive surgery complications or ongoing treatment
- Documentation from an ophthalmologist confirming fitness for duty
Branch-specific vision standards vary significantly. Know the exact thresholds for your commissioning source before pursuing remedials — what qualifies for Army ROTC may not qualify for Naval Academy.
Read Our Full Guide on Vision & Eyes Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates vision & eyes conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the vision & eyes guide