You qualify for a free NHS-funded sight test if:
- you’re under 16
- you’re under 19 and in full-time education
- you’re 60 or over
- you’re registered as blind or partially sighted
- you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- you’re 40 or over, and your mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter has been diagnosed with glaucoma
- you’ve been advised by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) that you’re at risk of glaucoma
- you’re a prisoner on leave from prison
- you're eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher - your optometrist (optician) can advise you about your entitlement
You’re also entitled to a free NHS sight test if you:
- receive Income Support
- receive Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (not Contribution-based)
- receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- receive Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (not Contribution-based)
- are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- are named on a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)
If you’re named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3), you may get some help towards the cost of your sight test.
NHS-funded mobile eye tests
Some people are entitled to an NHS-funded mobile sight test, where the optometrist comes to visit you:
- in your own home
- at a residential or care home
- at a day centre
If you qualify for a free NHS sight test, you may be entitled to mobile services:
- at home: if you’re unable to leave home unaccompanied because of physical or mental illness or disability
- at a residential or care home: if you normally live there and you’re unable to leave the home unaccompanied because of physical or mental illness or disability
- at a day centre: if you would have difficulty getting a sight test from an optometrist at their practice because of physical or mental illness or disability, or because you have difficulty communicating your health needs without help
Proving your entitlement to a free NHS eye test
When you go for your sight test, tell your optician that you’re entitled to a free NHS sight test. They will give you a form called GOS1 to fill in and sign.
You’ll be asked to show proof that you’re entitled to a free NHS sight test. For more information, see the NHS leaflet Help with health costs (PDF, 287.10kb, opens in new window). This leaflet explains which documents you will need to prove that you’re entitled to a free NHS eye test.
What if I’m not entitled to a free NHS eye test?
If you don’t qualify for a free NHS sight test, you will have to pay for a private sight test.
The cost of private sight tests varies, so it’s advisable to shop around.
Read the answers to more questions about NHS services and treatments.
Further information:
