The NHS, together with Specsavers, will cover the full cost of an eye test for anyone who qualifies (funding does not apply to everyone). In some cases, the NHS will also give an optical voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Find out if you qualify and what you need to do to receive your free eye test.
Who qualifies for an NHS-funded eye test?
UK residents are eligible for an NHS-funded eye test if they meet certain criteria. Find out who qualifies or doesn’t qualify using the information below.
Scottish residents aged between 16 and 60 can have an NHS-funded eye examination every two years, if required. This provision only applies to eye examinations conducted in Scotland. In the Isle of Man, eye tests are free to anyone on the IOM NHS.
What to bring to your eye test
Here’s what you need to bring with you to your appointment to show you qualify for an NHS-funded eye test (and in some cases, an NHS optical voucher for glasses too).
Proof you qualify
You only need to show one of these items, relevant to your circumstances (unless stated otherwise) as proof you qualify for an NHS-funded eye test or an NHS optical voucher for glasses.
Universal Credit
If you're in receipt of Universal Credit you are entitled to NHS eyecare but need to show us your certificate on entitlement when you attend for your appointment. You can apply for a certificate using form HC1 which is available here. If you don’t have your certificate we can still see you as a private patient and you can reclaim your entitlement on a HC5 form as detailed on the last page of the HC1.
NHS-funded eye examinations in Scotland and Isle of Man
Scotland
The Scottish Government funds NHS eye examinations, free to all residents. If you are aged between 16 and 60 you can have an NHS-funded eye examination every two years, if required. This provision only applies to eye examinations conducted in Scotland. Certain people can have an NHS-funded eye examination once a year, if required, including if you are:
- Under 16
- Aged 60 or over
- Diabetic or have ocular hypertension or glaucoma
- Over 40 and have a mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter with glaucoma
If you have concerns about your vision or your eyes before your next NHS eye examination is due, speak to your optician as you may be able to have another NHS-funded eye examination.
Booking your free NHS-funded eye test in Scotland is easy. Book now.
Isle of Man
In the Isle of Man, eye tests are free to all residents.
How often you can have an NHS-funded eye test?
If you qualify, you are entitled to have an NHS-funded eye test every two years. Your optician may recommend more frequent eye tests if you are:
- Diabetic
- Over 40 with a family history of glaucoma
- Over 70
- Under 16 and wear glasses
- Experiencing particular vision problems
You can book your NHS-funded eye test at Specsavers online today