When should your child have their first eye test?
Most parents know when to book their child's first dental check-up, but far fewer know when to book their first eye test. Young children rarely complain about their sight, and some common eye problems are easiest to treat when they are found early. Here, optometrist Ranjeet Bains explains when to book, what happens at the appointment, what is free on the NHS, and why you don't need to wait until your child starts school.
Why parents are being asked to act now
On World Sight Day (8 October 2026), the College of Optometrists, ABDO, Specsavers and Boots Opticians launched a joint campaign, supported by FODO, Fight for Sight, the IAPB and the Optical Suppliers Association. Its message is simple: make eye tests part of your child's routine healthcare from around three to four years old, before they start school (ABDO campaign announcement).
The campaign was prompted by an analysis of UK eye test data estimating that only around 5% of children aged five and under had an eye test during 2025 (College of Optometrists). That is a figure for a single year, and the age group includes babies and toddlers who aren't yet due a routine test, so it doesn't mean 95% of young children have never had their eyes checked. It does suggest that many children reach school without a full eye examination.
When should children have their first eye test?
UK optical bodies recommend a first full eye test with an optometrist at around three to four years old, ideally before your child starts school, then regular tests throughout childhood. There is no legal or mandatory age, and children can be examined at any age.
Book sooner, at any age, if:
- you, a health visitor or a nursery worker has noticed anything unusual about your child's eyes
- there is a family history of a squint, lazy eye or strong glasses in childhood
- your child was born prematurely or has a condition linked to eye problems
Babies already have their eyes checked as part of the NHS newborn and six-to-eight-week physical examinations. These are not full sight tests, but they look for important early problems.
Can babies and toddlers have their eyes tested?
Yes. An optometrist doesn't need a child to read, name letters or even speak. Many of the checks rely on watching how the eyes respond, so very young children can be examined if there is a concern. If your child is under three and you're worried, you can book with an optometrist or speak to your health visitor or GP.
How does an optometrist test a young child's eyes?
The examination is adapted to your child's age and is usually relaxed and play-based:
- Pictures and shapes: vision charts with simple pictures, or letter-matching games where the child points to a matching card.
- Watching the eyes: checks of how the eyes move, focus and work together, including a simple test to spot a squint.
- Measuring for glasses: the optometrist shines a light into the eyes to estimate any prescription. No answers are needed from your child.
- Eye health: a look at the front and back of the eyes with a light.
Sometimes drops are used to relax focusing, which gives a more accurate result in young children. Your optometrist will explain what they plan to do and what they find.
What signs might mean a child has a vision problem?
Young children rarely complain about their sight, because they assume everyone sees the way they do. Look out for:
- an eye that turns in, out, up or down, even occasionally
- sitting very close to the TV or holding books close to their face
- squinting, frowning, tilting the head or covering one eye
- frequent eye rubbing, watery eyes or headaches
- clumsiness, or difficulty with catching or hand-eye coordination
- losing their place when reading, or avoiding close work
If you notice any of these, book an eye test rather than waiting for the next routine check. If you see a white or unusual reflection in your child's pupil (for example in a flash photograph), or a squint or drooping eyelid appears suddenly, contact your GP promptly or call NHS 111 for advice.
Are children's NHS eye tests free?
Yes. In England there are three separate things to know about:
- NHS sight tests: free for all children under 16, and for young people aged 16 to 18 in full-time education.
- NHS optical vouchers: the same groups get a voucher towards the cost of glasses. See our guide to NHS optical vouchers.
- NHS home (domiciliary) sight tests: these have extra criteria. As well as qualifying for an NHS sight test, the person must be unable to leave home unaccompanied because of a physical or mental illness or disability. Our page on NHS home eye test eligibility explains this in more detail.
The Association of Optometrists has a clear guide to NHS sight test eligibility across the UK, as rules differ slightly in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
What is the difference between school vision screening and an eye examination?
The NHS recommends vision screening for children aged four to five, usually in their first year at school. It is a quick check, often by an orthoptist, mainly looking for reduced vision in one or both eyes. It is valuable, but it isn't offered in every area, and it doesn't replace an eye test.
A full eye examination with an optometrist also measures focusing and any need for glasses, checks how the eyes work together and looks at the health of the eyes. Some prescriptions, such as moderate long sight, can be missed by screening. A 2025 parent report from the College, ABDO and the OSA found that more than one in five parents didn't know the two were different (Children's eye health in the UK report).
How often should children have their eyes tested?
Current UK professional advice is usually every one to two years after the first test, unless your optometrist recommends otherwise. Children who wear glasses, have a squint or lazy eye, or are becoming short-sighted may need to be seen more often. Follow the recall date your optometrist gives you, as it is based on your child's own results.
Early checks matter because a child's vision is still developing in the first years of life. A lazy eye (amblyopia) generally responds best to treatment when it is found early, ideally well before about seven to eight years old.
What if my child has additional needs?
Children with autism, a learning disability, communication difficulties or sensory sensitivities can and should have regular eye tests. Many of the checks don't need a spoken answer. A few things can help:
- Tell the practice about your child's needs when you book, and ask for a longer or quieter appointment.
- Visit beforehand, or use photos or a short story to explain what will happen.
- Bring a familiar toy, snack or comfort item, and plan breaks.
- Ask whether the test can be split across more than one visit if needed.
In England, some special schools now offer NHS eye care on site, so it is worth asking your child's school. If your child cannot leave home unaccompanied because of illness or disability, an NHS home sight test may be possible. First Care Optical mainly visits older and housebound adults, but you are welcome to contact us to talk through whether a home visit is suitable or where else to turn.
Booking your child's eye test
If your child is three or older and hasn't had a full eye test, book one with a local optometrist. It is free, quick and usually enjoyable, and it gives you peace of mind as they start school.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual advice from an optometrist or doctor. Written by Ranjeet Bains BSc (Hons) MCOptom, GOC-registered optometrist, in support of the #CareForChildrensEyes campaign.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need to know their letters to have an eye test?
No. Optometrists use pictures, shapes, letter-matching games and light-based checks, so a child doesn't need to read, or even talk, to have their eyes examined.
Will my child have eye drops?
Sometimes. Drops may be used to relax the eye’s focusing so the prescription can be measured accurately. They can make vision blurry and light seem bright for a few hours afterwards. Your optometrist will explain beforehand.
My child passed their school screening. Do they still need an eye test?
Screening is a useful safety net, but it mainly checks how clearly each eye sees at a distance. It is not a full examination of focusing, eye coordination and eye health, so a regular eye test is still recommended.
Are children’s glasses free?
In England, children under 16, and young people aged 16 to 18 in full-time education, receive an NHS optical voucher towards glasses. Many practices offer a range of frames fully covered by the voucher.
How long does a child’s eye test take?
Usually around 20 to 30 minutes, though it can take longer if drops are used or your child needs breaks. Ask the practice if a longer or quieter appointment would help.
Part of our Common eye conditions explained. You may also like Good eye health and Check NHS home eye test eligibility.