Eye tests
What happens, how often to go, and who qualifies for a free NHS test.
NHS or private eye test: which applies to you?
Both types of eye test cover the same checks. The only difference is who pays.
| NHS eye test | Private eye test | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | People in an eligible group, such as under-16s, over-60s, or people with diabetes or glaucoma | Anyone who isn’t eligible for an NHS test |
| Cost to you | Free | A private fee, confirmed when we reply to your enquiry |
| What’s checked | Your vision, your prescription and the health of your eyes | Your vision, your prescription and the health of your eyes |
| Your prescription | Given to you after the test | Given to you after the test |
| Help with glasses | An NHS optical voucher if you qualify | No voucher unless you qualify for one |
Eligibility follows the NHS rules for free eye tests. The full list of eligible groups is in our eye tests guide.
How to book your eye test in Otley
- Fill in the booking questionnaireChoose “Eye test”, add your town and tell us if you think you qualify for an NHS test.
- We reply to arrange a timeBy email or phone, whichever you prefer, at the time of day you picked.
- Come to 26 Market PlaceBring your glasses, contact lens details and a list of any medicines you take.
- Leave with your prescriptionWith your results explained, and advice on whether you need new glasses.
An independent choice for eye tests in Otley
If you search for an eye test in Otley, many of the first results are national chains. They’re a perfectly good option. Otley Eye Care offers an alternative: a single independent practice on the Market Place where you can ask questions, come back to the same practice each time, and keep your prescription to use wherever you like.
Every NHS eye test, at any practice, is carried out by an optometrist registered with the General Optical Council. You can check any optometrist’s registration on the GOC’s public register.
Eye tests for the whole family
- Children: free on the NHS under 16, and children don’t need to be able to read. See children’s eye tests.
- Over-60s: free NHS eye tests. The NHS recommends a test at least every 2 years.
- Contact lens wearers: an eye test checks your prescription. Lens fitting and aftercare are separate. See contact lenses.
- Headaches or eye strain: an eye test can show whether your vision is contributing. See eye health guidance.
Getting to your eye test
We’re at 26 Market Place, Otley LS21 3AQ, in the middle of Otley town centre. If you’re coming from Guiseley, Menston, Pool-in-Wharfedale, Burley-in-Wharfedale or further afield, see how to find us and our pages for Guiseley, Ilkley, Horsforth and Yeadon.
Is it urgent? A sudden change in vision, a painful red eye, or new flashes and floaters shouldn’t wait for a routine eye test. See urgent eye care near Otley.
Questions people ask
Do you do NHS eye tests in Otley?
Yes. Otley Eye Care offers NHS eye tests at 26 Market Place for people who qualify, and private eye tests for everyone else. Tell us in the questionnaire if you think you qualify and we’ll confirm it at your appointment.
How do I book an eye test in Otley?
Send our booking questionnaire at otleyeyecare.co.uk/contact, or email hello@otleyeyecare.co.uk. We reply by email or phone, whichever you choose, to arrange a time.
Can I bring my child to the same appointment?
Tell us in the questionnaire that you’d like appointments for more than one person, and we’ll try to arrange them together. Children’s eye tests are free on the NHS for under-16s.
Do I have to buy glasses from you after my eye test?
No. You’ll get a copy of your prescription and can use it at any optician or online retailer. We’re happy to help if you’d like to choose glasses with us.