Optometrist carrying out a routine eye test at Direct Vision Opticians Birmingham

How often should you have an eye test?

July 3, 2025

Most adults should have an eye test every two years. Some people should come every year, or sooner if their optometrist advises it. Your optometrist will tell you when you're next due at the end of each appointment, based on your eyes and your health.

Who should have an eye test every year?

Children under 16, because their eyes are still developing and prescriptions can change quickly
People aged 70 and over
People with diabetes, even if you also attend the NHS diabetic eye screening programme
People aged 40 or over with a close relative who has glaucoma (a parent, brother, sister or child)
Anyone your optometrist asks to see sooner, for example to keep an eye on early cataracts or a change at the back of the eye

Why have a test if your eyes feel fine?

An eye test isn't only about whether you need glasses. It's also a health check. Some serious conditions, such as glaucoma, develop slowly and without pain, and you may not notice anything until sight has already been lost. During your test your optometrist looks at the front and back of your eyes, including the optic nerve and the blood vessels in the retina, and can often spot changes early, when they are easiest to manage.

Regular tests also catch small prescription changes that creep up on you. Many people only realise how much they were straining once they put on an up-to-date pair, especially for driving at night or reading small print.

When not to wait for your next routine test

Book sooner, or call us, if you notice:

Blurred or changing vision
Frequent headaches or eye strain
Trouble with glare or seeing at night
Halos around lights

If you have sudden loss of vision, a painful red eye, or a sudden shower of new floaters or flashing lights, get urgent help the same day: call us, contact NHS 111, or go to A&E.

Is my eye test free?

Your NHS eye test is free if you're 60 or over, under 16, 16 to 18 in full-time education, have diabetes or glaucoma, are 40 or over with a close relative who has glaucoma, or get Universal Credit (within the earnings limits) and some other benefits. Otherwise a private eye examination with us is £30. See our NHS eligibility guide or read how much is an eye test.

What happens at the appointment?

Adult appointments with us are 30 minutes and children's are 20, so nobody is rushed. Read how long an eye test takes and what happens for a step-by-step guide.