Made in our UK lab · Next Day Delivery
How Often Should You Have an Eye Test?
NHS recommendations, eye test frequency in the UK, and free NHS eye test eligibility, explained clearly.
Published by Direct Sight | Eye Care Guide
The NHS recommendation
The NHS recommends an eye test at least every two years for most healthy adults. This applies whether or not you wear glasses, have symptoms, or feel your vision is perfectly fine.
Eye tests do far more than check your reading prescription. A routine examination can detect early signs of serious conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and high blood pressure, often before you are aware of any problems. Regular testing is one of the simplest things you can do for your long-term health, as well as your sight.
Who needs more regular eye tests?
The two-year interval is a minimum for healthy adults. Certain groups have a higher risk of eye conditions and benefit from more frequent testing:
| Group | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Most healthy adults (18-60) | Every 2 years |
| Children under 16 | Annually or as clinically advised by your optometrist |
| Adults aged 60-70 | Every 2 years |
| Adults over 70 | Every 2 years Free NHS test) - more frequent testing may be clinically recommended |
| People with diabetes | Annually |
| People with glaucoma | Annually (or as advised) |
| Family history of glaucoma (aged 40+) | Annually |
| Strong and rapidly changing prescriptions | As advised by optometrist |
| Heavy screen users | At least every 2 years - follow your optometrist's advice |
Children's eyes are developing rapidly and prescriptions can change quickly. The College of Optometrists recommends annual checks for myopic children up to around age 12 to 13. Then at least every two years thereafter. All children under 16 are entitled to a free NHS eye test.
Signs you need one sooner
Do not wait for your next routine appointment if you notice any of the following. Book an eye test promptly:
- Sudden or noticeable change in your vision
- New or worsening blurred vision at any distance
- Persistent headaches, particularly after reading or screen use
- Difficulty seeing clearly in low light or at night
- New floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow across your vision
- Eye pain, redness, or unusual sensitivity to light
Free NHS eye test UK, eligibility explained
Free eye test UK eligibility is broader than many people realise. In England, you qualify for NHS entitlement of Free sight test if any of the following apply:
✓ Under 16
✓ Aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education
✓ Aged 60 or over
✓ Diagnosed with health conditions such as diabetes or glaucoma
✓ Aged 40+ and your parent, sibling or child has been diagnosed with glaucoma
✓ Advised by an ophthalmologist that you are at risk of glaucoma
✓ Registered as sight impaired or severely sight impaired
✓ Eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher
✓ Receiving Income Support, income-based jobseekers, income-based ESA, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
✓ Named on a valid NHS HC2 (full help with health costs) certificate
You may also qualify if you or your partner receive Universal Credit meeting certain earnings thresholds. Eligibility differs slightly in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, check with your local optician or the relevant NHS authority.
What does an eye test check?
A standard eye test is far more than a vision assessment; it's a comprehensive health check. In around 20 to 30 minutes, your optometrist will typically:
- Check your visual acuity (how clearly you see at different distances)
- Assess whether you need glasses or contact lenses or a change to your current prescription
- Measure the pressure inside your eyes, a key indicator for glaucoma
- Examine the health of the retina and optic nerve
- Screen for early signs of health issues such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease
- Check general health such as signs of systemic conditions including high blood pressure
This is why regular testing matters even when your vision feels fine. Many serious eye conditions develop without obvious symptoms in their early stages.
After your eye test, getting your glasses
If your optometrist updates your prescription, you are free to have your glasses made wherever you choose. Direct Sight makes all prescription glasses in our UK laboratory in Amersham, with prices from £9.
Shop for your new glasses at Direct Sight
Browse our range and pick your perfect frame then customise with your prescription lenses.
Related Categories
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you have an eye test in the UK?
How often should you have an eye test UK guidelines state: at least every two years for most adults. Children, adults over 70, people with diabetes or glaucoma, and those with a family history of glaucoma, should have a eye test more frequently. Always follow your optometrist's advice if they suggest a shorter interval.
Who is eligible for a free NHS eye test in the UK?
In England, you qualify if you are: under 16; aged 16 to 18 in full-time education; aged 60 or over; diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma; aged 40+ with a parent, sibling or child diagnosed with glaucoma; at risk of glaucoma as advised by an ophthalmologist; registered as sight impaired; or receiving certain means-tested benefits. Criteria vary slightly in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. As your optician if you are eligible before your next eye test.
How often can I have a free NHS eye test?
If eligible, you can usually have a free NHS eye test every two years. You may be able to have one sooner if your optometrist considers it clinically necessary. If you would like a test more frequently than recommended, you would need to pay for a private test.
How much does an eye test cost if I don't qualify for a free NHS test?
Private eye test costs typically range from £20.00 to £30.00 depending on provider and location. Some offer discounts for students or NHS staff. If you paid for a test but were eligible for a free one, you can apply for a refund using an HC5(O) form.
Do children need eye tests more often than adults?
Yes. Children's vision can change rapidly. Annual eye tests are recommended for most children, particularly those who are short-sighted. All children under 16 are entitled to free NHS eye tests. The College of Optometrists recommends annual checks for myopic children up to around age 12 to 13, and every two years after that.
When should I get an eye test sooner than every two years?
Book an eye test promptly if you notice sudden changes in your vision. New or worsening blurred vision or persistent headaches. Difficulty seeing in low light, new floaters or flashes of light, or any eye pain or discomfort. Do not wait for your next routine appointment with these symptoms.
What does an eye test check for beyond vision?
Eye tests can detect early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and high blood pressure. Often before symptoms appear. This is one of the most important reasons to have regular eye tests even if you feel your vision is fine.
Resources and References
NHS, visiting an Optician, reviewed May 2024
NHS, how often can I have a free NHS eye test?
Association of Optometrists, NHS Eye Sight Test Eligibility
College of Optometrists, frequency of Eye Examinations
ABDO, NHS Eye Test England: Who Is Eligible
GOV.Wales, get Help with NHS Eye Care Costs
Top Doctors, how Often Should I Get My Eyes Checked?