How Often Should You Get A Vision Test?

Many Americans don’t get a vision test nearly as often as they need. You probably need to get your eyes checked more often than you think, especially if you have certain vision risk factors. Here’s a guide on how frequently you need to check your vision:

Vision Test Timeline for Babies and Toddlers

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends your baby have his/her first vision test as a newborn, and then again when he is between six and twelve months old.

When your child turns three,  he/she should have another test. If your child has an issue such as misaligned eyes, a refractive error, or another focusing problem, she needs a comprehensive eye exam from an ophthalmologist.

Vision Testing for School-Age Children

When it’s time for your child to go to school for the first time, he should have another comprehensive eye exam to screen for visual acuity and alignment. If no issues are present, regular eye exams and vision tests every 1-2 years are recommended.

Vision Testing For Adults

Here are Mayo Clinic’s general guidelines for adults:

• Between the ages of 20-39, get your eyes checked every 5-10 years.
• Adults need a comprehensive eye exam when they turn 40 so your ophthalmologist can determine a baseline for your eye health.
• Between the ages of 40-54, get checked every 2-4 years.
• Between the ages of 55-64, get checked every 1-3 years.
• Once you reach age 65, get an eye exam and vision test every 1-2 years. Your risk for contracting eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma significantly increases as you age.

Special Circumstances

Some people need a vision test sooner or more frequently than the above recommendations:

• Children identified as having a learning disability, developmental delay, behavioral issues, or serious medical condition
• Adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a serious medical condition
• Those with a family history of eye disease
• Those who need glasses or contact lenses