How much is an eye test in the UK? Prices explained

The short answer: an eye test can be free. Millions of people in England qualify for a free NHS eye test, and if you don't, a private eye examination at most independent opticians and high-street chains costs somewhere around £25 to £40. At Direct Vision in Great Barr and Sheldon, a private eye examination is £30.

Here's how it works, so you know what to expect before you book.

Who gets a free NHS eye test?

Your NHS eye test is free if any of these apply to you:

• You're 60 or over
• You're under 16, or 16 to 18 and in full-time education
• You have diabetes or glaucoma
• You're 40 or over and your parent, brother, sister or child has glaucoma
• You've been told by an eye doctor that you're at risk of glaucoma
• You're registered blind or partially sighted, or need complex lenses
• You get Universal Credit (within the earnings limits), income-related Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Income Support or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• You have a valid HC2 certificate, or an NHS tax credit exemption certificate

Not sure? Our NHS eligibility guide goes through each group in plain English, and there's a separate page on free eye tests on Universal Credit and benefits.

How much is a private eye test?

If you don't qualify for an NHS test, you pay for a private one. Prices vary between opticians, so it's worth checking what's included rather than just the headline price. Some cheaper tests are shorter, and some add extras like retinal photos at an additional cost.

At Direct Vision a private eye examination is £30. It's an extended consultation with an experienced optometrist, and you leave with a full prescription report. At our Great Barr practice, retinal imaging is included with private tests.

Is the NHS eye test any different from a private one?

The core check of your eye health and vision is the same. A good optometrist will check how well you see, look at the health of the front and back of your eyes, and measure your eye pressure where needed, whether the NHS or you are paying.

The differences are usually in the extras. With a private test you might get longer appointment times or additional scans included. At our practices, NHS patients can add retinal imaging for £10, and it's free for new patients over 60 at Great Barr.

Do I get money off glasses if I have an eye test?

You never have to buy glasses where you have your eye test. You're entitled to your prescription and can take it anywhere.

If you do choose glasses with us, they start from £59 including frames and single vision lenses, and there's second pair half price on all private complete pairs. If you buy varifocals after a private eye test with us, the £30 test fee comes off your glasses. You can see everything on our prices page.

What about NHS help with glasses?

A free eye test doesn't automatically mean free glasses. NHS optical vouchers towards glasses are for children, young people in full-time education, people on certain benefits, people with an HC2 certificate and people who need complex lenses. Being over 60 on its own gets you a free test, but not a voucher.

If you have a voucher, you can choose a pair from our NHS voucher range at no cost, or put your voucher towards any of our complete pairs and just pay the difference.

How often should I have an eye test?

Most adults should have an eye test every two years. Children, people aged 70 and over, people with diabetes and anyone with a family history of glaucoma may be advised to come every year. We explain why in why regular eye tests matter.

Book your eye test in Great Barr or Sheldon

Whether you're NHS or private, you'll get a proper, unhurried appointment with an experienced optometrist. Book online, or call Great Barr on 0121 325 0665 or Sheldon on 0121 742 9599. If you're not sure whether your test is free, just ask when you call and we'll check for you.