Problem setting maximum characters for a date field.

Good morning all. I am trying to ensure that a date field on the form I am working on validates if the entry is not more than 8 digits, and if it is more, it should display a message, and return the focus back to the field until it is correct. Below is the code I wrote but it is not working:

  if(DATE1.length>"8"){    xfa.host.messageBox(Enter eight digits for the date in the format YYYYMMDD or use the drop down calendar.);
xfa.host.setFocus("form1.Page1.DATE1");  }

I do not know why it is not working, i need help. I have this code on the exit event.

Thanks

v/r

Tammy