Legal Information & Rights
Community-contributed information about disability rights, insurance coverage, driving requirements, school accommodations, and more — organized by country.
United States
Driving with Duane Syndrome
In the US, driving requirements are set by each state. Most states require: - Visual acuity of 20/40 or better in at least one eye - A minimum horizontal visual field (varies by state, typically 110-140 degrees) Most people with Duane Syndrome meet these requirements easily since DS affects eye MOVEMENT, not visual acuity or visual field. If your visual acuity is 20/40 or better, you should be able to obtain a standard driver's license. Some states may require a vision specialist to sign off. Contact your state's DMV for specific requirements.
School Accommodations (IEP/504 Plan)
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, children with Duane Syndrome may qualify for accommodations if the condition affects their ability to learn. Common accommodations include: - Preferential seating (positioned so the board is in their functional gaze range) - Permission to maintain their natural head turn without correction - Extra time for reading-intensive tasks (if applicable) - Modified seating for standardized tests Note: Not all children with DS need or qualify for accommodations. Many function perfectly in standard classroom settings with only a seating adjustment.
Israel
Military Service with Duane Syndrome
In Israel, Duane Syndrome is evaluated as part of the IDF medical profile (פרופיל רפואי). The condition is classified under ophthalmological conditions. Most people with DS receive a medical profile of 72 or 64, depending on severity. This means they serve in the military but may be excluded from certain combat roles that require full binocular vision. The classification depends on: - Degree of limitation - Whether both eyes are affected - Presence or absence of amblyopia - Visual acuity Appeal process: If you disagree with your profile classification, you can request a re-evaluation at the military medical board (ועדה רפואית).
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