Aim: To review critically the literature on the use of logMAR visual acuity tests. This includes visual acuity norms for a range of different ages and tests, and repeatability values. Method: A literature review was conducted of data on validity, age norms and repeatability of currently available logMAR tests. Results: All the methodological discrepancies con­cerning the Snellen-based tests have been accounted for in the design of logMAR-based tests. Tests available for paediatric use include the crowded and uncrowded logMAR test, Kay’s linear logMAR crowded picture test. HOTV acuity test and the l ea Symbols chart. Normative acuity data have been reported for logMAR tests for children from 3 to II years of age and young adults. The data show that with increasing age the mean acuity improves and the range attributed to normal narrows. The repeatabil­ity and reliability of the ETDRS and crowded logMAR tests have been determined and values reported for the detection of change. Conclusions: Research to date remains sparse on visual acuity norms as a function of age for log-based tests and data tend to be on one test for a limited age group. There is a need for comparative age-specific normative data for acuity scores for logMAR tests, which could only he achieved by undertaking a large cohort study evaluating multiple tests on the same children in the age range 3 to 7 years.