The NHS offer free eye tests to people who fall into certain categories. These people are entitled to a free eye test every two years or more frequently if recommended by the optometrist.
In order to be entitled to a free NHS eye test, you must fall within one of the following categories:
- Under 16 years of age
- Under 19 years of age and in full time education
- 60 years of age or older
- Have been diagnosed with glaucoma
- Are aged 40 years or older with an immediate family member who has been diagnosed with glaucoma
- If you are diabetic
- Registered blind or partially sighted
- If you or your partner receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- If you are claiming Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or another form of income support
- Have a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- Have a valid NHS exemption certificate such as a HC2 or HC3 form
- People who require complex lenses
If you are eligible for a free NHS eye test and it is over two years since your last one then you should contact and optician to arrange an appointment. When you go to your appointment make sure you let the optician know that you fit one of the above categories and are therefore eligible for a free NHS sigh test and ask for a GOS1 form to apply for this.
NHS mobile sight tests
The NHS also provides free mobile eye tests in which an optometrist visits you directly to carry out the sight test. In order to be eligible for NHS funded mobile sight tests, you must be eligible for a general free NHS eye test (the criteria listed above) and also meet one of the following criteria:
- If you are at home and unable to leave unaccompanied due to a physical or mental illness or a disability
- If you live in a residential home or a care home and are unable to leave unaccompanied due to a physical or mental illness or a disability
- If you attend a day centre in which is would be difficult to attend an eye test at an opticians due to a physical or mental illness or a disability or due to a lack of communication skills
