How Much Does an Eye Test Cost?
UK eye test prices at every optician, who gets a free NHS test, and what the test actually involves.
Quick answer
£20-£35 at most opticians. But millions of people in the UK qualify for a free NHS eye test and do not claim it. Check whether you are eligible before you pay. The criteria are broader than most people realise.
Eye Test Prices by Optician
| Optician | Standard Test | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Specsavers | £25 | Often free with glasses purchase under 2-for-1 offer |
| Boots Opticians | £25-£30 | Enhanced eye health check available |
| Vision Express | £20-£30 | Price varies by location |
| Independent optician | £25-£40 | Varies widely. Often more time and detail. |
| Hospital eye service | Free | Referral needed from GP or optician |
Additional OCT (optical coherence tomography) scans are often offered as an upgrade for £10-£30 extra. These give a more detailed view of the back of the eye and are worth considering if you are over 40 or have a family history of eye disease.
Who Gets a Free NHS Eye Test
You are entitled to a free NHS-funded eye test if you fall into any of these categories:
- +Under 16
- +Aged 16-18 in full-time education
- +Over 60
- +Receiving Universal Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Income Support
- +Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- +At risk of glaucoma due to family history (direct relative diagnosed)
- +Registered as blind or partially sighted
- +Referred for treatment by a hospital eye department
What Happens During an Eye Test
A standard eye test takes 20-30 minutes. It is not just a check for whether you need glasses.
Visual acuity
The classic letter chart. Tests how sharp your vision is at distance. A number like 6/6 means you can read at 6 metres what a person with normal sight reads at 6 metres.
Refraction
Determines whether you need glasses or contact lenses and what prescription strength. The optician swaps lenses in front of your eyes to find the sharpest correction.
Eye pressure
Glaucoma screening. Raised intraocular pressure is a key risk factor. Often done with a puff of air or a probe that briefly touches the eye.
Retinal examination
The optician looks at the back of your eye using a light. This can detect signs of diabetes, macular degeneration, and other conditions before you notice any symptoms.
Colour vision
Usually a brief check using dot pattern plates. Not always included but standard in most comprehensive tests.
How Often Should You Go?
| Group | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Most adults | Every 2 years |
| Over 70 | Every year |
| Diabetic | Every year |
| Existing eye conditions | Every year or as advised |
| Children | Every year |
Your optician will recommend the right interval at the end of your appointment. If your vision changes noticeably between tests, go back sooner rather than waiting.
Common Questions
Is a free eye test actually the same as a paid one?
Yes. The NHS-funded eye test covers the same core examination. The optician is reimbursed by the NHS at a set rate. You are not getting a lesser test. The only difference is that private tests may include optional extras like OCT scans.
Do I have to buy glasses from the same optician?
No. Your prescription belongs to you. You can take it anywhere: another optician, an online retailer, or keep it on file. Opticians must give you a copy of your prescription at the end of the test.
Can children have their eyes tested for free?
Yes. All children under 16 qualify for free NHS eye tests, as do young people aged 16-18 in full-time education. Early testing matters because vision problems in childhood can affect learning and development.
What if I cannot afford glasses after an NHS test?
If you qualify for an NHS optical voucher (available to people on low incomes, children, and certain benefit claimants), you get a contribution towards the cost of glasses. The voucher value ranges from around £39 to £117 depending on your prescription strength.
Eye Test Cost Calculator
Compare eye test prices across UK opticians and check if you qualify for a free NHS test.
| Optician | Eye Test | Total | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specsavers | £25 | £25 | Free with NHS voucher or 2-for-1 glasses deals |
| Boots Opticians | £29 | £29 | Often have £5 vouchers online |
| Vision Express | £30 | £30 | Free with glasses purchase |
| Asda Opticians | £20 | £20 | Often cheapest high street option |
| Independent optometrist | £35 | £35 | More time per patient, specialist options |
Who gets a free NHS eye test?
- ✓ Under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- ✓ Aged 60 or over
- ✓ Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- ✓ Aged 40+ with immediate family history of glaucoma
- ✓ Registered blind or partially sighted
- ✓ On Income Support, ESA, JSA, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit
- ✓ Named on a valid HC2 or HC3 certificate
- ✓ Prisoner on leave from prison