How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost? Pricing by Type and State

Regular eye exams are critical to maintaining good vision and overall eye health. However, not all eye exams are the same, and certain tests and procedures are designed for specific needs. There are differences between a vision screening, a routine eye exam and a comprehensive eye exam.

We’ll examine common types of eye exams and explain their purpose, including what you can expect from each one and how much they cost. Whether you are due for a routine checkup or have specific concerns, understanding the different types of eye exams can give you a clear vision of how to best maintain your eye health.

What Is an Eye Exam?

An eye exam is typically a comprehensive 45- to 90-minute review of your visual acuity and overall eye health.¹ It can be performed by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist, depending on the level of care required.²

Eye exams may consist of vision testing, including peripheral vision, a look at your pupils, eye pressure testing, dilation to examine your retina and other tests.¹

Types of eye exams

Different types of eye exams evaluate different aspects of your vision and eye health. The appropriate type of exam may depend on your age, symptoms, health history and vision needs.

Depending on your needs, your eye doctor may suggest supplemental testing or specialized imaging to get more information on the health of your eyes. Ask your doctor to explain what to expect with each test, the data each test provides and why it’s important.

How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost?

The national average cost** of an annual eye exam for patients with vision insurance is $12, but it can range from $9 to $19.⁴ In most cases, out-of-pocket cost may be under $20.

For patients without a vision insurance plan, the average cost** of an annual eye exam is $125, but it can range from $95 to $205.⁴

Costs can vary based on the testing performed during the eye exam, your geographic location and the experience and training of the eye doctor.⁴

Average cost of an eye exam by type

Below are average costs** of an eye exam without insurance by type.⁴

Calculate the cost of an eye exam near you**

Average cost of an eye exam by state/district

Here’s a look at the average cost** of an annual eye exam, with and without insurance, in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.⁴

Does Insurance Cover Eye Exams?

Vision insurance plans differ from health insurance and are usually purchased separately. Most vision plans include benefits such as vision exams, eyeglass frames and lenses and contact lenses. Individual vision plans vary and may cover vision exams annually or every other year. Some vision plans offer eyeglass frames and lenses or contact lenses at a discount.⁵

Health insurance can typically be used if you’re being treated for an eye problem or disease or for a medical condition that could cause an eye problem. For example, health insurance may cover the cost of treatment for glaucoma, floaters, dry eye, allergies, infections or monitoring the development of cataracts.⁵

Coverage may also extend to patients with diabetes or those using medication that may cause eye-related side effects.⁵

Every vision plan and health insurance plan is different. Contact your insurance provider for a complete overview of what may or may not be covered under your plan.

How Can You Pay for an Eye Exam?

There are several ways to pay for an eye exam, depending on what your provider offers and your budget. Some pay up front with cash, check or a credit/debit card. Others may choose a payment plan offered through the practice.

If you’d prefer to pay over time, the CareCredit credit card is another option many patients use for out-of-pocket health and wellness services. If approved, you can make monthly payments (with promotional financing options where available). Promotional financing options vary, so review the details and ask the office whether they accept CareCredit before deciding.

How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked?

Regular eye exams can detect potential vision issues before they become problematic. Knowing how often to have your eyes checked can help protect your overall eye health at any age.¹

Even if your eyes are healthy and your vision is good, regular eye exams establish a baseline so potential changes in your vision or eye health can be caught early.¹

Visit an eye doctor before your next regular exam if you experience eye pain or discomfort, persistent squinting or eye strain, night vision difficulties, increased flashes or floaters, frequent headaches or blurred or double vision.⁶

The following chart provides general guidance on how often to have your eyes checked at different ages and life stages.¹

Regardless of age, it’s important to adhere to the schedule of checkups your eye doctor has recommended based on your needs and current eye health.

What Happens During an Eye Exam?

Eye exams can vary based on your age, health history and vision needs. Here’s what you can generally expect before, during and after an exam.

Preparation

At the beginning of your appointment, the provider may review your medical history and ask about any concerns or changes involving your vision or eye health. Be prepared to discuss your current vision needs and whether you wear glasses or contact lenses.¹

Procedure

The exam itself may include a visual acuity test, which involves reading an eye chart to assess how well you can see at a distance and up close.²

Other vision exams may test for depth perception, color vision, eye muscle movements, peripheral or side vision, and pupil response to light. Depending on your needs, the provider may also use eye drops, measure the curvature of the cornea or perform refraction testing to determine the prescription you may need.²

Recovery

Once the exam is complete, the provider may go over the results and discuss if any follow-up care is needed, as well as if you need glasses or a prescription change. Most eye exams do not require a recovery period, although your provider can let you know whether any testing performed during the appointment calls for temporary precautions.⁸

Protect Your Vision With Regular Eye Exams

In addition to determining whether you need glasses or an updated prescription, an eye exam can help detect changes in your eye health before those changes affect your vision. Following the exam schedule recommended by your eye doctor — and understanding your insurance, payment and financing options — can help you make regular eye care part of your overall wellness routine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Exams

Do you still have questions about eye exams? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions.

Financing Eye Exams With the CareCredit Credit Card

Regular eye exams are an important part of your eye health. Whether you’re getting an eye exam or paying for eye surgery, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for care where your insurance leaves off.* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a vision specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to vision care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, pet care, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Anne-Marie Kennedy is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience covering health and wellness, personal finance and real estate/investing.