A pioneering online vision testing system designed for motorists is offering a new dimension to highway safety by testing drivers for visual acuity (distance), visual field (peripheral), color vision and contrast sensitivity tests (night vision). These tests have become more necessary as the driving population ages and many DMV field offices have extended license-renewal periods for as long as 12 years without a vision test. The VisionRx system is a Web-based, vision testing software program that enables motor vehicle departments and divisions to provide faster, more accurate and efficient vision testing. The pilot program was announced this week by the New Mexico Motor Vehicles Division. The system goes far beyond eye charts, which merely test for distance vision. It provides randomized test sequences which eliminate opportunities to cheat and can be accessed on any computer for easy consumer accessibility. The first phase of the pilot program provided vision testing online at the Motor Vehicle Division offices in New Mexico. In the near future, New Mexicans will have the ability to take their driving and vision test from home on their own personal computer, according to VisionRx officials.