January 19, 2026

How Often You Should Get an Eye Exam: A Guide for Adults and Children

Many people only think about their eyes when something feels wrong. Blurry vision, headaches, or trouble seeing at night often become the trigger to book an appointment.

But eye exams are about much more than updating a prescription.

Regular eye exams help detect vision changes early, monitor overall eye health, and in some cases identify signs of systemic health issues before symptoms appear.

So how often should you actually have an eye exam? The answer depends on your age, vision history, and overall health.

Here’s a simple breakdown for adults and children.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

An eye exam is not just a vision test.

During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor evaluates:

Many eye conditions develop slowly and without noticeable symptoms. Routine exams allow problems to be identified early, when treatment is most effective.

How Often Should Adults Get an Eye Exam?

Adults Ages 18–39

Most adults in this age group should have an eye exam every two years, even if vision seems fine.

You may need more frequent exams if you:

If your prescription is changing or symptoms develop, annual exams are often recommended.

Adults Ages 40–64

Once you reach your 40s, yearly eye exams become more important.

This is the age when many people begin to notice:

Annual exams help monitor for age-related changes and screen for early signs of conditions such as glaucoma or dry eye.

Adults 65 and Older

Adults over 65 should have a comprehensive eye exam every year.

As we age, the risk of eye disease increases, including:

Routine monitoring helps preserve long-term vision and independence.

How Often Should Children Get an Eye Exam?

Children’s vision can change quickly, especially during school years. Because kids often don’t realize they’re seeing poorly, vision problems can go unnoticed.

Recommended Eye Exam Schedule for Children

Annual eye exams are especially important for children who:

Early detection plays a major role in healthy visual development.

How Often If You Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses?

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, an annual eye exam is usually recommended.

Prescriptions can change gradually, and even small changes can impact comfort, clarity, and eye strain. Contact lens wearers also require regular monitoring to ensure eye health and proper lens fit.

Medical Conditions That May Require More Frequent Exams

You may need eye exams more often if you have:

Your optometrist can recommend a personalized schedule based on your health needs.

Signs You Should Book an Eye Exam Sooner

Don’t wait for your next scheduled exam if you notice:

These symptoms can indicate vision changes or underlying eye health issues that should be evaluated promptly.

Eye Exams in Cedar Park, TX

At Cedar Park Vision, comprehensive eye exams are designed to evaluate both your vision and overall eye health.

Whether you are scheduling a routine checkup, noticing changes in your eyesight, or booking your child’s annual exam, regular care helps protect your long-term vision.

Schedule Your Eye Exam

If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, or you’re unsure when you should be seen next, our team is happy to help guide you.

Book your comprehensive eye exam with Cedar Park Vision and stay proactive about your eye health.