Free NHS Eye Test Voucher Eligibility in Hertfordshire and Surrounding Counties
At Opticall Eyecare, we believe everyone deserves clear vision, no matter their financial situation. If you live in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Milton Keynes, or North West London, you may qualify for a free NHS eye test voucher.
Rising living costs should not mean your eye health is neglected. If you are on a low income, claim certain benefits, are registered blind or disabled, or are in full-time education, you could be eligible for a free NHS sight test. Some people also receive help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses through the NHS optical voucher scheme.
Free eye test eligibility criteria
A free NHS sight test includes a full eye examination and an eye health check. You can qualify if you meet any of the following:
- Aged 60 or over
- Registered blind or partially sighted
- Have diabetes or glaucoma
- At risk of glaucoma, as confirmed by an optician
- Aged 40 or over with a close family member who has glaucoma
- Receiving income support, universal credit, income-based jobseeker’s allowance, or pension credit guarantee credit
- Entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- On a low income and named on a valid HC2 (full help) or HC3 (partial help) certificate
- Eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher, as advised by an optician
What is a complex lens voucher?
A complex lens voucher helps towards the cost of glasses for people with strong prescriptions. To qualify, your prescription must be at least -10 or +10 dioptres, or you must need prism-controlled bifocal lenses. The voucher value depends on your prescription and is issued if you have a valid certificate for an NHS complex lens voucher.
What is a full NHS optical voucher?
An optical voucher is given alongside a free NHS eye test if you also qualify for help with glasses or contact lenses. It can cover part or all of the cost, depending on your prescription. The higher your prescription, the higher the voucher value.
Will I get help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses?
You may get NHS help if you are:
- Eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher (ask our optician for advice)
- Receiving income support, universal credit, or income-based jobseeker’s allowance
- Receiving pension credit guarantee credit or income-based employment and support allowance
- Entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- Named on a valid NHS HC2 (full help) or HC3 (partial help) certificate
For full details, visit the NHS website. If you are not eligible for NHS support, you can still book a private sight test and cover the costs yourself.
Where can I get a free NHS eye test?
If you cannot visit a high street optician alone because of a disability, poor health, or age, you may qualify for a home visit. Opticall Eyecare provides free NHS home eye tests in Hertfordshire and surrounding counties.
Our mobile optometrists visit your home to provide:
- A full eye test and eye health check
- Help with choosing your prescription glasses
- Personal delivery and fitting of your glasses once they are ready
Can I have a free eye test every year?
Most people who qualify for a free NHS eye test can have one every two years. Your optician or ophthalmologist may recommend more frequent tests if needed. You must remain eligible to keep receiving the benefit.
Understanding sight test fees
If you do not qualify for an NHS sight test, prices at high street opticians are usually £20–£30. Opticall Eyecare focuses on helping those who cannot reach a store, offering NHS-funded home visits for eligible patients.
NHS eye test support for care homes
Travelling to a high street optician is often difficult for care home residents. Opticall Eyecare supports care homes in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Milton Keynes, and North West London. Our qualified optometrists can carry out multiple NHS eye tests in one visit, ensuring residents receive professional eye care without leaving their home.