An NHS eye test is a comprehensive sight test funded by the National Health Service. It is clinically identical to a private eye test — you receive exactly the same thorough examination of your vision and eye health, carried out by a qualified optometrist. The only difference is that the NHS pays the fee, so you pay nothing.
Eligibility for a free NHS eye test covers a broad range of people. You qualify if you are: aged 60 or over, under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education), diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma, receiving qualifying means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. You also qualify if you are aged 40 or over with a parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with glaucoma, if you have been advised by an ophthalmologist that you are at risk of glaucoma, if you are registered blind or partially sighted, if you need complex lenses, or if you are a prisoner or on probation.
Booking an NHS eye test is straightforward. Simply contact any optician that provides NHS services (which is the vast majority of high-street and independent opticians in the UK) and ask to book an NHS sight test. The receptionist will confirm your eligibility when you arrive or may check it in advance. You will need to provide proof of eligibility such as a benefit award letter, HC2 or HC3 certificate, or simply your date of birth if you qualify by age.
During the test, your optometrist will check your visual acuity (how clearly you see), carry out a refraction to determine whether you need glasses and your exact prescription, measure your eye pressure to screen for glaucoma, and examine the health of your eyes using specialised instruments. If any problems are found, you will be referred for further investigation or treatment.
If you need glasses as a result of your NHS eye test, you may also receive an NHS optical voucher to help with the cost. Voucher values depend on your prescription and typically range from £39.10 to £215.50. This can be used towards any glasses at any optician.