Compare Private Eye Test Prices UK
Find the lower-cost eye test near you from GOC-registered opticians. Standard tests from £20. OCT retinal scans from £10. Enter your postcode to compare local prices.
Market data: private eye tests
3 providers · April 2026Who qualifies for a free NHS eye test?
- Under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- Aged 60 or over
- Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- Aged 40+ with immediate family history of glaucoma
- Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit
- Registered blind or partially sighted
If you don't qualify, a private eye test costs £20–40 at most opticians.
Find opticians near you
3 providers found. Enter a postcode to sort by distance.
Asda Opticians
National chain — multiple locations
Standard test
£24.00
With OCT scan
£49.00
Optical Express
GOCNational chain — multiple locations
Standard test
£25.00
With OCT scan
£50.00
Specsavers
National chain — multiple locations
Standard test
£25.00
With OCT scan
£35.00
Should you go private or use the NHS?
NHS route
NHS eye tests are free for eligible groups (see above). If you qualify, book through any participating optician — Specsavers, Boots, Vision Express, and most independents offer NHS tests.
Typical wait: Same day at most opticians
Private route
Same-day or next-day appointments. Choose your provider. No referral needed in most cases.
Typical wait: 24 hours – 1 week
When private eye tests makes sense
You don't qualify for a free NHS test
If you're 18–59 without qualifying conditions, a private eye test is your only option. Costs £20–40.
You want an OCT retinal scan
OCT scans are not routinely offered on the NHS unless referred by your optician. Private OCT costs £10–25 and detects eye disease much earlier.
You want a more thorough examination
Some opticians offer premium assessments with additional tests (visual fields, corneal topography) not included in a standard test.
What to check before booking
- ✓Optician is GOC (General Optical Council) registered
- ✓Price includes the full standard eye examination
- ✓Ask if OCT scan is included or an add-on
- ✓Check if they participate in NHS eye tests (if you're eligible)
Questions to ask a provider
- ?Is an OCT scan included in the test price?
- ?How long is the full examination?
- ?Will I get a copy of my prescription?
- ?Do you offer contact lens assessments?
Frequently asked questions
How much does a private eye test cost?
Can I get a free eye test?
What is an OCT scan?
Related eyecare comparisons
Sources & further reading
- GOC — General Optical Council Register — Verification of registered optometrists and dispensing opticians
- NHS Free Eye Tests Eligibility — Who qualifies for NHS-funded eye examinations
- College of Optometrists — Clinical guidelines for eye examinations and OCT scanning
How we compare eye test prices
Prices are collected from GOC-registered optician websites. All listed providers hold current GOC registration. Prices may vary by location and may not include add-ons (OCT, contact lens assessment). We do not accept payment for ranking or inclusion. Read our methodology →