If you’re colorblind and facing a color vision test, you might be wondering: How do I pass a colour blind test? Whether it’s for a job, a copyright, or an academic qualification, color vision tests like the Ishihara or Farnsworth D-15 can pose a serious challenge. While there is currently no cure for color blindness, there are smart and practical strategies that can help improve your chances of performing better during these tests. This guide provides actionable tips designed specifically for individuals with color vision deficiency who want to pass a color blind test with confidence. how do i pass a colour blind test?
Understand the Test You’re Taking
First and foremost, find out which test you’ll be taking. The Ishihara Test is the most common and uses a series of colored dot plates to form numbers that can only be seen correctly by individuals with normal color vision. Other tests include:
Farnsworth D-15 Test: Requires arranging color tiles in the correct order.
Lantern Test: Used in aviation and maritime industries to assess recognition of colored lights.
Each test evaluates color perception differently, so knowing which one you’ll face is key to preparing effectively.
Practice Makes Progress
There are many free online tools and mobile apps that simulate common color blindness tests. Practicing these regularly can help your brain recognize visual patterns, brightness variations, and shapes that go beyond just color. Over time, you can train yourself to identify alternative cues such as contrast, texture, or edge sharpness to deduce the correct answers.
Take the Test Under Optimal Lighting
Lighting significantly affects how we perceive colors. Always practice or take the test in a well-lit room with natural daylight or bright white light. Avoid dim, yellow, or colored lighting, as it can worsen color perception. Using a high-quality screen or printed test in the correct lighting condition can make a meaningful difference in your results.
Use Color-Correcting Glasses (For Practice)
Color-enhancing glasses, like those made by EnChroma or Pilestone, may improve your perception of certain colors, especially for red-green deficiencies. While most official tests don’t allow these aids, using them during practice sessions may help you develop better pattern recognition and confidence.
Train Your Brain to Spot Non-Color Clues
In many cases, Ishihara plates and similar tests offer hints beyond color—such as variations in dot size, density, or placement. With focused practice, you can train your eyes to pick up on these cues. For example, a number might appear more prominently through differences in shading or pattern alignment, even if the colors are not distinguishable.
Ask About Alternatives or Accommodations
In some industries or regions, alternative color vision tests or practical assessments may be accepted. If you struggle with the standard test, inquire whether you can take an alternative like the Farnsworth test or demonstrate your ability through a job-related task.
Consult a Specialist
If color vision is a barrier to your goals, speak with an optometrist. A professional assessment will clarify your type and severity of color blindness and may open up options for accommodations or different test methods.