You are eligible for an NHS sight test if;
You’re aged under 16*
You’re aged 16, 17 or 18 and are in full-time education*
You’re aged 60 or over
You’re registered as partially sighted (sight impaired) or blind (severely sight impaired)
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 eye doctor (ophthalmologist) 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
Receive Income Support*
Receive Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (not contribution-based)*
Receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit*
Receive income-based Employment and Support Allowance*
Are awarded Universal Credit and meet the criteria on earnings limit*
Are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate*
You are named on a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)*
People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help.

*If you receive some of the means tested benefits, under 16 or are in full time education you may also be entitled to a voucher for free glasses. If you are not eligible for an NHS funded sight test there will be a charge of £25 to be tested privately