How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Tested? (By Age and Risk)
Not everyone needs an annual eye exam. Frequency depends on your age, health conditions, and whether you wear glasses or contacts. Here is what the major professional bodies recommend.
Age-Based Eye Exam Frequency (AAO/AOA Guidelines)
| Age | Recommended Frequency | Annual Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5 years | 3 exams total (6 months, age 3, age 5) | ~$300-$600 total (US) |
| 6-17 years | Annually | $100-$200/year |
| 18-39 (no risk factors) | Every 2-3 years | $45-$125/year (amortised) |
| 18-39 (contacts or glasses) | Annually | $100-$250/year |
| 40-54 | Every 2 years | $50-$125/year (amortised) |
| 55-64 | Every 1-2 years | $75-$200/year |
| 65 and older | Annually | $100-$250/year |
Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and American Optometric Association (AOA) guidelines.
Who Needs More Frequent Exams?
The following groups should have annual eye exams regardless of age, because their risk of developing sight-threatening conditions is significantly higher:
What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
UK vs US Recommendations
- Adults 18-39 (low risk): every 2-3 years
- Adults 40-54: every 2 years
- Adults 55-64: every 1-2 years
- Adults 65+: annually
- Contact wearers: annually
- Adults (low risk): every 2 years
- Adults with conditions: annually or as advised
- Children: annually
- Contact wearers: annually
- 65+: annually
The Cost of Skipping Eye Exams
A $100-$250 annual exam is a sound investment against these treatment costs. Most eye diseases detected early are treatable; detected late they may cause permanent vision loss.
| Condition | Treatment Cost (if late-stage) |
|---|---|
| Glaucoma (medication) | $500-$2,600/year ongoing |
| Glaucoma (surgery) | $2,000-$10,000 per procedure |
| Diabetic retinopathy (laser treatment) | $1,000-$3,500 per session |
| Wet macular degeneration (anti-VEGF injections) | $2,000-$10,000 per injection, often monthly |
| Retinal detachment surgery | $5,000-$15,000 |
| Cataract surgery (per eye) | $3,000-$5,000 (standard), $5,000-$6,000 (premium) |
FAQ
How often should adults get their eyes tested?
The AAO recommends adults 18-39 with no risk factors get a comprehensive eye exam every 2-3 years. Adults 40-54 should have an exam every 2 years. Adults 55-64 every 1-2 years. Adults 65+ annually. Contact lens wearers need annual exams regardless of age.
Do I need an eye test every year?
Not necessarily if you are young and have no vision problems or risk factors. Adults 18-39 without glasses, contacts, or health conditions may only need an exam every 2-3 years. However, if you wear contact lenses, have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, or are over 40, annual exams are strongly recommended.
What is included in a comprehensive eye exam?
A comprehensive eye exam includes: visual acuity test, refraction, cover test, slit lamp examination, tonometry (eye pressure), and funduscopy (retinal examination). It takes 30-60 minutes. Dilation with eye drops may be recommended for a better retinal view, adding 30-45 minutes.
What is the cost of skipping eye exams?
Glaucoma detected late requires medication ($500-$2,600/year) and possibly surgery ($2,000-$10,000). Diabetic retinopathy treatment costs $1,000-$3,500 per laser session. Wet macular degeneration injections cost $2,000-$10,000 each, often monthly. A $100-$250 annual exam is a very sound investment compared to these costs.