Free NHS eye tests and help with glasses

Free NHS sight tests

You can get a free NHS sight test if you:

• are under 16
• are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
• are 60 or over
• are registered as sight impaired or severely sight impaired
• have diabetes or glaucoma
• are 40 or over and your parent, brother, sister or child has glaucoma
• have been told by an eye doctor that you are at risk of glaucoma
• need complex lenses
• get income-related ESA, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or Universal Credit within the earnings limits
• have an HC2 certificate (an HC3 may help with part of the cost)

Home visits

If you qualify for a free sight test and cannot leave home without help because of illness or disability, you can ask for a free NHS home visit. Contact a local optician that offers them.

Vouchers for glasses or contact lenses

An NHS optical voucher pays towards glasses or contact lenses. You can get one if you:

• are under 16, or 16 to 18 and in full-time education
• get income-related ESA, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or Universal Credit within the earnings limits
• have an HC2 certificate (an HC3 may give you a smaller voucher)
• need complex lenses

Being over 60 on its own does not give you a voucher. The value of the voucher depends on your prescription. You can use it for any glasses, and pay the difference if they cost more.

In Wales

The rules are similar. Wales also offers free eye examinations through its eye health service for some people who have an eye problem that needs attention, or who are at higher risk of eye disease. Ask your optometrist whether you qualify.