How Long Does an Eye Exam Usually Take?

Eye exams are key to keeping your vision sharp and your eyes healthy. Whether you’re going in for a routine check-up or something more detailed, it helps to know how long it might take—so you can plan your visit with confidence.

How Long Is a Typical Eye Exam?

A full, comprehensive eye exam usually takes anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on your needs.

You’ll go through several vision and eye health tests, but the exact time can vary based on a few things, like:

• Filling out medical or insurance forms when you arrive

• Talking with your doctor about symptoms or health changes

• Needing pupil dilation for a deeper retinal check

• Having a more complex eye condition that requires extra testing

• Getting a contact lens fitting

• Taking time to browse for new glasses or sunglasses after your exam

In general, plan for at least an hour, especially if this is your first visit or you haven’t had an eye exam in a while.

Types of Eye Exams

Not all eye exams are the same. The kind of exam you need will affect how long you're at the eye doctor’s office.

Comprehensive Eye Exam

This is your standard “check everything” appointment. It checks vision, eye pressure, retina health, and screens for eye diseases. These exams usually last 30 to 60 minutes, but they can go up to 90 minutes or more with added tests or dilation.

Pediatric Eye Exam

Designed for kids, these exams focus on development and early vision issues. They typically last about 30 minutes, though younger kids might need more time depending on how well they cooperate.

Specialized Eye Exams

For patients with conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, or other eye health concerns, the doctor may run specific tests, which can add extra time.

What Can Make Your Eye Exam Take Longer?

Several factors can stretch the length of your visit:

• Eye dilation – Adds 15–30 minutes while your pupils widen so the doctor can check the retina thoroughly

• Contact lens fitting – If you’re new to contacts or trying a new type, your optometrist will take extra time to measure your eyes, teach you how to wear and clean the lenses, and maybe even have you test a few pairs

• Shopping for glasses – If you plan to get new frames or sunglasses, browsing and fitting can add extra time

• Health conditions – Diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of eye disease may require additional evaluations

  
  

What Tests Are Done During an Eye Exam?

Here’s what usually happens during a full eye exam:

• Visual Acuity Test – You’ll read letters on a chart to measure how well you see at various distances

• Refraction Test – Helps determine your prescription using a phoropter (that big lens machine)

• Eye Pressure Test – Measures the pressure inside your eye (important for catching glaucoma)

• Slit Lamp Exam – Uses a special microscope and light to check the front parts of your eye (like the cornea and iris)

• Peripheral Vision Test – Checks your side vision, which is useful for spotting signs of glaucoma

• Retinal Exam – The doctor uses lenses or imaging tools to look at the back of your eye and spot early signs of disease

  
  

What About Eye Dilation?

Dilation allows the optometrist to take a close look at the inside of your eye. It’s especially helpful for detecting conditions like retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

• Dilation takes 15–30 minutes to kick in

• Your pupils will stay wide and light-sensitive for a few hours afterward

• Not every exam includes dilation—it depends on your age, risk factors, and symptoms

If your doctor recommends dilation, plan for extra time and bring sunglasses for after the appointment.

Getting Fitted for Contact Lenses?

If you’re planning to wear contacts, you’ll need a separate fitting. This process includes:

• Measuring your eye size and shape

• Trying different lenses for comfort and vision quality

• Learning how to insert, remove, and clean the lenses

• Scheduling a follow-up visit if needed

This can add 30 minutes or more, especially for first-time wearers.

Before & After Your Appointment

Before Your Exam
You’ll likely fill out some paperwork covering your medical and vision history, insurance info, and any symptoms or lifestyle needs. The more detail you give, the better your eye doctor can tailor your care.

After Your Exam
You’ll go over the results with your optometrist, ask questions, and discuss any recommendations—whether that’s a new prescription, further tests, or simply keeping up with routine care. If you need glasses, you can try on frames and get help choosing lenses that fit your needs.

FAQs About Eye Exams

How often should you get an eye exam?

• Adults: Once every 1–2 years, or annually if you wear glasses or have risk factors

• Children: First exam between 6–12 months, again before school starts, then annually

• People with health conditions like diabetes may need more frequent checkups

What are signs you need an eye exam?

• Blurred vision

• Frequent headaches

• Squinting or eye strain

• Trouble seeing up close or far away

• Light flashes, floaters, or sudden vision changes

If you notice these symptoms, don’t wait—book an appointment.

Why are regular eye exams important?
Eye exams don’t just update your prescription—they detect early signs of serious issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. They can even spot signs of diabetes or high blood pressure, making them important for your overall health.

What’s Next?

Once your exam is done and your prescription is updated, it’s time for the fun part—choosing new glasses or contacts that fit your life and style.

At EFE Glasses, we offer affordable, high-quality eyewear designed to suit every face and every need. From blue light glasses for screen time to stylish progressives for everyday wear, we’ve got you covered.

Clearer vision starts here. Book your eye exam, then check out our latest styles made to keep you seeing—and looking—your best.