How often should you have an eye test?

The intervals in brief

These follow the same schedule as our routine eye exams guide:

• Adults under 40 with no symptoms: every two years if advised by your clinician
• Adults over 40, or with glasses, diabetes or family eye disease: often yearly
• Children: vision screening around age 4 to 5, and a full test if squint or poor vision is suspected
• Contact lens wearers: annual checks as a minimum

Why test when vision feels fine

An eye test checks the health of your eyes, not just your prescription. Glaucoma and diabetic eye disease often develop with no early symptoms, and regular exams catch them while treatment works best. Many people also discover their glasses prescription has quietly changed.

What happens at a routine test

A standard test covers your symptoms and health history, reading letters at distance and near, working out any prescription, a quick eye-pressure check, and an examination of the front and back of the eye — sometimes with drops to widen the pupils. Most tests take 20 to 30 minutes.

When to book sooner

Do not wait for a routine slot if you notice sudden vision loss, new flashes and floaters, eye pain, an injury, or a red painful eye. These need same-day assessment at any age and any interval.