Why have an eye test?

"How often?

How often you should go for a test varies with age. Guide Dogs recommends that children be taken for an eye examination by the age of three, and every two years after this (or more often if recommended by your optometrist). Children under the age of 16 (or under 19 if in full-time education) are entitled to free eye tests on the NHS.
At 40, you should have a full eye examination, with follow-up exams about every two years (or more often if recommended by your optometrist). Age increases the risk of cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, but remember, if detected early, the development of some diseases can be slowed or halted.
At 70 and beyond, you should have a full eye examination every year, even if you think your vision is good. If you are 60 or over you can get an eye test for free"