How to know if you're eligible for an online vision test

You’re standing in front of the bathroom mirror, holding your phone at arm’s length and squinting at a text that seems like it's in size 0.006 font. (It’s not — does that font size even exist?) You wonder: Is this just the natural progression of vision and age, or is it time for an eye exam? If you've already got glasses or contacts, you might wonder if a strong prescription or a move to bifocals is in your near future.

Perhaps you've heard of online eye exams, which sound quick and convenient  — and won't come with that annoying puff of eye air you sit through at the local office. But how do you know if you're eligible for this service?

Online eye exam eligibility depends on a few key factors. Spoiler alert: not everyone qualifies. But if you meet the basic requirements, you may be able to skip the waiting room and get a renewed prescription from the comfort of your couch. First, let’s clear up one common misconception.

An eye exam (the kind you get in an office with dilation drops and all the bells and whistles) checks your overall eye health. An online vision test, on the other hand, measures how well you see and can help renew your prescription — if you’re eligible.

Here's what usually determines eligibility:

• Your state laws

• Your age

• Whether you've had a valid prescription for glasses or contacts before

• Your overall eye health

• Your comfort level with basic technology

• The time since your last eye exam

We’ll explore each of these factors in the sections below to help you figure out whether an online vision test might work for you or if it’s time to book an old-fashioned trip to the eye care professional.

Who should not use an online eye exam?

Let's start by reiterating the real talk from above about this convenient option: Online eye exams aren’t full eye exams. They’re vision tests designed to evaluate how clearly you see and whether your current prescription needs an update. The tests don’t check your eye health, screen for disease, or involve anyone saying, “You might feel a little pressure.”

While online vision tests are super convenient for many people, they’re not the right fit for everyone. If any of the following applies to you, you might need an in-person appointment with your eye care professional:

• You have serious or chronic eye conditions. Glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, ongoing eye infections, or even severely dry or overly watery eyes might mean you need actual professional eyes on your eyes.

• You've never had a vision 'script before. Just starting your glasses or contacts journey? Welcome to the club! You'll have to enter through an in-person exam, though.

• You've got a complex prescription. Bifocal needs, astigmatism or prism correction might be just beyond the reach of a vision test's capability.

• You're dealing with new symptoms or believe your vision has changed substantially. Blurriness, floaters, headaches, or flashes of light may need to be checked out by a professional in a physical location with actual eye charts on the wall.

Can you get an eye test online?

You may be able to do a vision test online. Note that eye exams are not the same thing as vision tests, and they are not available online. 

Dive deeper into the eligibility requirements below to see if you can do a vision test online. 

Your state allows online vision tests

Not every state allows online vision tests. Telehealth laws and regulations vary across states, and those are the laws that govern online vision tests. States that allow online vision tests for at least some people are:

• Alabama

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• California

• Colorado

• Connecticut

• Florida

• Illinois

• Iowa

• Kentucky

• Massachusetts

• Maryland

• Minnesota

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• Nevada

• New York

• New Hampshire

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Ohio

• Oregon

• Pennsylvania

• Rhode Island

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Washington

• Wisconsin

• Wyoming

Note that state laws do change fairly regularly. You may need to check whether you can do an online vision test depending on where you live. At 1-800 Contacts, we'll get your state location as part of the screening process to help you understand if you're eligible. 

You meet the age requirements

Age is a significant factor in determining eligibility for online vision tests. Most services cater to adults between 18 and 55 years old. This age range is considered optimal because individuals within it are less likely to have age-related eye conditions that require comprehensive in-person evaluations. ExpressExam, the online vision test you can use through 1-800 Contacts, works with eligible individuals in this age range. 

You have (or had) a prescription

To use an online vision test, you typically need to have an existing prescription. These tests are designed to assess whether your current prescription is still suitable and not to provide an initial diagnosis. If you've never had a prescription before, you should consult an eye care professional in person for a comprehensive eye exam.

You had a certain type of prescription

Online vision tests are generally suitable for individuals with simple prescriptions. If you have a single-vision prescription for distance or reading glasses, you're likely eligible. However, those with complex prescriptions, such as multifocal lenses or high astigmatism corrections, may not be suitable candidates for online tests.

We know, it's inconvenient to have to go in for an exam just because your eyes need a bit more dialing in. However, online vision exam technology isn't quite ready to address your needs.

You don’t have serious eye conditions

Online vision tests aren't recommended for individuals with certain eye health issues. Conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy require comprehensive in-person evaluations. If you have any of these conditions or are experiencing symptoms like sudden vision changes, it's crucial to consult an eye care professional directly. 

AI and computing have come a long way, and ChatGPT might be helpful when you're researching eye health. But an eye care pro it is not.

You’re comfortable with technology

Conducting an online vision test requires a basic level of technological proficiency. You'll need a smartphone, a computer or tablet, and a stable internet connection. The process involves following on-screen instructions, positioning yourself correctly, and possibly using your device's camera. If you're comfortable navigating digital platforms and following technical instructions, you'll likely find the process straightforward.

Online eye exam eligibility

Online vision tests are a convenient option —  but only if you meet a few key requirements. They’re best for people who have had a prescription before, are between 18 and 55, and live in a state where online testing is allowed. If your prescription is simple and your eyes are generally healthy, you might be able to skip the waiting room and renew your contacts from your couch. (Pajamas: optional but encouraged.)

Still, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some prescriptions and eye conditions need more in-depth care than a vision test can provide. And if you’ve never had an eye exam before, your best bet is to start with an in-person visit.

At 1-800 Contacts, we make it easy to find out if you’re eligible. Our online vision test, ExpressExam, walks you through the process step by step — so you can spend less time squinting at fine print and more time seeing clearly.

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!