Eye tests
What happens, how often to go, and who qualifies for a free NHS test.
When are children’s eyes checked?
In England, children’s eyes are checked several times as part of routine NHS care (NHS: eye tests for children):
| Age | Check |
|---|---|
| Within 72 hours of birth | Physical examination, including the eyes |
| 6 to 8 weeks | Follow-up physical examination |
| Around 1 to 2½ years | Health and development reviews |
| Around 4 to 5 years | Vision screening at school |
These checks are useful, but they’re not a full eye test. If you’re worried about your child’s eyes at any age, you don’t need to wait for the next routine check. Book an eye test at an optician.
Signs your child may need an eye test
Children rarely say they can’t see well, because they assume everyone sees the way they do. The NHS lists signs to watch for, including:
- eyes that don’t look straight or don’t seem to move together
- headaches or eye strain
- difficulty with reading, or losing their place
- poor hand-eye coordination or seeming clumsy
- rubbing their eyes a lot
- sitting very close to the TV or holding screens and books very close
Source: NHS: eye tests for children, checked 28 September 2026.
What happens at a children’s eye test?
A children’s eye test is adapted to your child’s age. Instead of letters, the optometrist can use pictures, shapes or symbols. For very young children, they can check how the eyes focus and work together without your child needing to answer questions at all.
- You tell us what you’ve noticedAnd about any family history of squints, lazy eye or glasses in childhood.
- Vision checked in a child-friendly wayPictures or matching games rather than reading.
- Eye health and focusing checkedIncluding whether the eyes work together.
- Results explained to youIncluding whether glasses would help and when to come back.
Help with the cost of children’s glasses
If your child needs glasses, NHS optical vouchers help with the cost for children under 16 and for young people under 19 in full-time education (NHS). We explain how the voucher works at the appointment. See glasses and sunglasses for how we help children choose frames that fit and last.
Questions people ask
Does my child need to be able to read to have an eye test?
No. The NHS confirms that children don’t need to be able to read, or even speak, to have an eye test. Optometrists use pictures, shapes and other methods instead (NHS).
Are children’s eye tests free?
Yes. NHS eye tests are free for children under 16 and for young people aged 16 to 18 in full-time education.
Isn’t the school eye check enough?
School vision screening, usually at around 4 to 5, is a helpful check, but it isn’t a full eye test. If you notice signs such as squinting, headaches or trouble reading, book an eye test rather than waiting.
Can I book my children’s eye tests alongside mine?
Yes. Mention everyone who needs an appointment in the booking questionnaire and we’ll try to arrange them together.