They can either be a combination of head-mounted eyeglasses (termed the "carrier") and binoculars, or be designed to attach to existing glasses.
Newer designs use smaller lightweight mini telescopes magnifying up to six times, which can be embedded into the spectacle glass and improve aesthetic appearance.
When they want magnification, the patient quickly glances through the binocular portion to see details such as street signs, traffic lights and far distant objects.
Determining whether a visually impaired individual may become a bioptic driver requires a multidisciplinary approach.
This may include the low vision specialist, physicians, driving rehabilitators, occupational therapists and orientation and mobility instructors.