Your free NHS eye examination in Scotland — what’s included and who qualifies
Everyone in Scotland is entitled to a free NHS eye examination. Here is exactly what you get, how often, and what the optional extras are.
Scotland is the only part of the UK where an NHS eye examination is free for everyone ordinarily resident here — not just children, over-60s or people on benefits. You do not need a GP referral and you can book directly with us.
What the examination includes
- A conversation about your vision, health and lifestyle
- A full sight test for distance and near
- Health checks of the front and back of the eye
- Eye pressure measurement where appropriate
- Advice, and a prescription if you need one
How often
Every two years for most adults; every year if you are under 16, over 60, diabetic, or over 40 with a close relative who has glaucoma. If something changes in between, a supplementary examination is also free.
The optional extras
An OCT scan (£25) gives a far more detailed picture of the retina and optic nerve and is worth considering if you have risk factors or simply want extra reassurance. It is not covered by the NHS, and we will always explain it before it is charged.
