Eye Exams for Adults

Use the guidelines below to schedule routine vision checks and eye exams with an Reference ophthalmologist Opens New Window or Reference optometrist Opens New Window.

If you know that you are not at risk for eye disease and you don't have signs of vision problems, have a complete eye exam to check for eye disease and vision problems:^{Reference 1}

• Every 5 to 10 years if you are younger than 40.
• Every 2 to 4 years if you are age 40 to 54. (Starting at age 40, Reference presbyopia Opens New Window is likely to develop.)
• Every 1 to 3 years if you are age 55 to 64.
• Every 1 to 2 years if you are age 65 or older.

Your eye doctor may also suggest that you get exams more often just to check for Reference refractive errors Opens New Window.

If you are at risk for or have signs of eye disease, you may need complete eye exams more often.

Eye diseases and refractive errors include:

• Reference Nearsightedness Opens New Window.
• Reference Farsightedness Opens New Window.
• Reference Glaucoma Opens New Window.
• Reference Age-related macular degeneration Opens New Window.

For people who have Reference diabetes Opens New Window, experts recommend a yearly eye exam.

For adults who are at risk for glaucoma, see these Reference glaucoma screening recommendations.

After reviewing all of the research, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (Reference USPSTF Opens New Window) concluded that more evidence is needed to find out if the pros outweigh the cons of routine Reference visual acuity Opens New Window screening in older adults.^{Reference 2}

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.