Children's eye test

Eye tests are free on the NHS for everyone under 16 (and for 16 to 18 year olds in full-time education). Children do not always say when they cannot see well, so we suggest a first test around age 3 and one every year or two after that.

Your optometrist uses pictures and shapes instead of letters for the youngest children, and makes the test a game. It takes about 30 minutes. A parent or carer needs to stay with children under 16.

What to bring

• Your child's glasses, if they have them
• Their last prescription, if there is one
• A favourite toy or book to keep things relaxed