How often should I get an eye exam?

29 January 2026

Many people only visit an ophthalmologist when they start to notice that they “can’t see well.” However, eye health goes far beyond reading blurry letters. A routine eye exam not only corrects vision—it also helps detect eye diseases early, many of which can progress without symptoms.

So… how often is it recommended?

The frequency of eye exams depends on age, overall health, and personal history. These are the general recommendations:

Children

• First exam: between ages 3 and 5.

• Then: before starting school and once a year during the school years.
  Many vision problems in children go unnoticed and can affect learning, attention, and development.

Young adults (18 to 39 years)

• Every 1 to 2 years, even if there are no symptoms.

Even when vision seems “perfect,” an exam helps detect early changes, eye strain, or issues related to prolonged screen use.

Adults aged 40 and over

• Once a year.

From this age on, presbyopia (age-related near vision loss) is common, and the risk of conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration increases.

People at higher risk for eye conditions

If you have any of the following, an annual exam—or the frequency recommended by your ophthalmologist—is ideal:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Family history of glaucoma or other eye diseases

• Long-term contact lens use

• Previous eye surgery

What if I don’t have symptoms?

That’s exactly the key point: many eye diseases show no symptoms in their early stages. Glaucoma, for example, can progress silently until it causes irreversible damage.

A comprehensive eye exam evaluates not only how well you see, but the overall health of your eyes. Schedule your appointment here.