How often should you get an eye test?

By Goodrich Optical Group · Last updated 4 July 2026

As a general guide, most adults should have an eye test about every two years, while children and adults over 60 usually benefit from a check every year. How often you personally need one depends on your age, your general health and any existing prescription, so your optometrist may suggest a different interval. An eye test does more than update your glasses — it can help pick up problems early, often before you notice any change in your sight.

How often should children get an eye test?

Children should have their eyes tested at least once a year, and ideally before they start school. Young children rarely complain about blurry vision because they assume everyone sees the world the way they do, so problems can easily go unnoticed at home. Regular tests help catch issues such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness or a lazy eye while they are still easier to manage.

In Malaysia, childhood short-sightedness is becoming more common, partly linked to long hours of near work, more screen time and less time spent outdoors. If your child squints, sits very close to the TV, holds books near their face, rubs their eyes often or struggles to see the whiteboard, it is worth booking a test sooner. For children whose short-sightedness is progressing quickly, you can ask about myopia control options, which aim to slow how fast it advances. An optometrist can advise what suits your child.

How often should adults get an eye test?

Most healthy adults with no symptoms should have an eye test roughly every two years. This general guide suits many people between their twenties and fifties who have no known eye conditions, though your optometrist may recommend a different interval. Even if your vision feels perfectly fine, a routine test can reveal early signs of eye or general health conditions that have no obvious symptoms yet.

You may need to go more often if your optometrist advises it, if you wear glasses or contact lenses, or if you have symptoms such as eye strain from long hours on screens. If your vision changes noticeably between visits — for example, letters or road signs becoming harder to read — there is no need to wait for your two-year mark. Book an appointment whenever something feels different.

How often should the over-60s get an eye test?

Adults over 60 should generally have an eye test every year. The risk of several age-related eye conditions rises with age, including cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, and many of these develop slowly and without pain. A yearly check gives a better chance of spotting them early, when there are often more options to protect your sight.

Annual tests also keep your glasses up to date, which matters for everyday safety — reading medication labels, seeing steps clearly and driving with confidence. If you notice increasing glare, colours looking faded or yellowed, or more difficulty seeing at night, mention it at your visit, as these can be worth checking. Your optometrist can advise how often you should come in.

Which risk factors mean you should test more often?

Some health and lifestyle factors can mean you should test more often — often every year rather than every two. The main ones to be aware of are:

Diabetes: diabetes can affect the small blood vessels at the back of the eye, so a yearly eye check is important even if your vision seems normal. Your doctor may also arrange separate diabetic eye screening.
Family history: if close relatives have glaucoma or certain other eye conditions, your own risk may be higher, so more frequent tests can be sensible.
An existing prescription: if you already wear glasses or contact lenses, your eyes are more likely to change over time and benefit from regular monitoring.
Heavy screen use: long hours on phones, computers and tablets can bring on eye strain and dryness. This is usually temporary rather than damaging, but if it is persistent, a test can check whether an updated prescription or other measures would help.

If more than one of these applies to you, ask your optometrist how often you should come in.

What signs mean you should book an eye test sooner?

Book an eye test sooner if you notice any change in your vision or comfort, rather than waiting for your next routine appointment. Common signs worth checking include:

Blurred or hazy vision, near or far
Frequent headaches or aching, tired eyes
Difficulty seeing while driving, especially at night
Squinting or holding things closer to see clearly
Double vision or trouble focusing between distances

Some symptoms need urgent attention. Sudden loss of vision, a sudden burst of new flashes or floaters, a shadow or curtain across your sight, or eye pain with redness should be treated as an emergency — seek medical help straight away rather than waiting for an appointment.

Remember that this guide offers general information and is not a diagnosis. A comprehensive eye test with a qualified optometrist is the best way to understand what your eyes need, so if in doubt, it is always worth getting checked.

Frequently asked questions

Do I still need an eye test if my vision seems fine?

Yes. Many eye conditions develop slowly and have no early symptoms, so your sight can feel normal while a problem is quietly developing. A routine test can pick these up early, when they are usually easier to manage.

How often should I get an eye test if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes, a yearly eye check is generally recommended, even when your vision seems normal. Diabetes can affect the blood vessels at the back of the eye, and regular checks help catch any changes early. Your doctor may also arrange a separate diabetic eye screening, so follow the advice your doctor or optometrist gives you.

How often should children have their eyes tested?

At least once a year, and ideally before starting school. Children often do not realise their vision is blurred, so regular tests are the best way to catch short-sightedness, a lazy eye or other issues while they are still easier to treat.

Can an eye test detect other health problems?

Sometimes, yes. An eye test can occasionally reveal early signs of general health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, because the eye gives a clear view of blood vessels and nerves. It is not a full health check, but it can prompt a helpful referral.