BUT..............if there were an accident, and the doctor was subpoenaed to court and testified that the patient was told by the doctor that he was ‘legally blind, and could no longer drive’, he could lose everything!
He realized that it was not worth the risk - and turned in his license. (He hid his face, as he handed his license over, as he didn't want anyone to see the tears.)
Your friend did the right thing. It was a smart move for him.