OBJECTIVES: To psychometrically evaluate the VISTAS item pool and develop four new distance-specific visual function scales (VISTAS-18). METHODS: Study participants (n=139) were recruited from those attending an optometry clinic to change an existing eyeglass prescription. Sampling was balanced across myopic, hyperopic, presbyopic, and astigmatic conditions. Four VISTAS-18 Function Scales (Near, Intermediate, Extended-Intermediate and Distant Function) were identified and refined using PCA factor analysis with oblique rotation. Lens prescription data and visual acuity assessments in the near, intermediate and distant ranges were used to provide concurrent criterion-related validity to the new scales. RESULTS: Participants’ mean age was 50.7 years (SD 15.0) and was roughly balanced by gender (f:m 4:3). Astigmatism (97/139), Presbyopia (92/139), Myopia (88/139), Hyperopia (43/139), and Cataracts (28/139) were the most common causes of poor vision.  Factor analysis revealed three and four-factor solutions that explained over 80% of the variance in task difficulty. The VISTAS-18 Function Scales were internally consistent (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.89 - 0.96) with normally distributed uncorrected task difficulty scores and floor effects associated with corrected ratings.  Moderate correlations were observed between the uncorrected VISTAS-18 Function Scales scores and both the logMAR visual acuity (r2 = 0.41 - 0.63) and temporary lens strength (r2 = 0.30 - 0.66).  With one exception, the correlations between change in lens strength and change in VISTAS-18 Function Scale scores were all significant. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides initial structural and criterion-related validity for the 4 VISTAS-18 Function Scales.  The VISTAS-18 Function Scales responded linearly across the range of both visual acuity and corrective lens strength in each distance range.  Despite the small numbers of evaluable cases, three of the VISTAS scales were responsive to relatively minor adjustments in lens strength in the near, intermediate and distant visual ranges.