Eye exam: what happens at the optician's?
Steps, duration, usefulness, advice: find out how an eye exam at an optician's works and when to have your vision checked.
Vision changes throughout life. Sometimes it's obvious (you squint, hold your phone further away, tire quickly). And sometimes it's more subtle: headaches, burning sensations, dry eyes, difficulty driving at night... In any case, an eye exam at an optician's allows you to take stock, check your prescription, and improve your comfort.
In this guide, we explain how an eye exam works, what the optician measures, how long it takes, and when you should see an ophthalmologist instead. The goal is to ensure you know exactly what to expect so you can choose the right solution (glasses, contact lenses, medical examination, etc.).
What is an eye exam at an optician?
An eye exam performed by an optician is a vision test carried out using professional instruments. It measures your visual acuity and assesses whether your current prescription is still suitable for your needs.
What does the optician measure during an eye exam?
- Distance vision and near vision
- The ability to read clearly and comfortably
- Tolerance to certain corrections
- Consistency between your correction and your usage (screen, driving, work, etc.)
For whom and in what circumstances should this be done?
An eye exam is useful in several situations:
If your glasses "no longer fit"
Blurred vision, fatigue, discomfort when looking at screens, difficulty reading... These are often signs that your prescription needs updating.
If you are replacing your glasses
Even if you can see "more or less," a check-up will optimize your comfort and prevent an inadequate correction.
If you have changed your usage
A new job involving screen work, more frequent driving, sports, reading... Your visual needs may change.
If you want a quick opinion
A check-up will let you know if you need to schedule an eye appointment or adjust your glasses.
How is an eye exam performed? (step by step)
1) Discussion with the optician (your needs)
Even before the tests, the optician begins by understanding your situation: your symptoms (fatigue, blurred vision, headaches), your habits (screen use, driving, reading), your environment (lighting, distance, work), and your goals (comfort, precision, performance).
This step is crucial: two people with the same prescription on paper may have very different needs in everyday life.
2) Vision tests (distance, near, comfort)
Next come the visual tests. You will be seated in front of optotypes (letters/symbols) and the optician will gradually adjust the settings. It is a precise but simple process, and above all, painless.
- Distance vision test (reading, sharpness, comfort)
- Near vision test (reading, distance, endurance)
- Search for the best compromise between sharpness and comfort (very important)
3) Verification and explanation of results
Once the tests are complete, the optician will explain the results to you: any changes, expected comfort, and recommendations. If your prescription has changed, we will also discuss the type of lenses that will suit you best: single vision, progressive, computer lenses, prescription sunglasses, etc.
How long does it last?
In general, an eye exam at an optician's lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. It depends mainly on:
- the complexity of your correction
- your comfort (fatigue, dry eyes, etc.)
- your needs (screen, driving, multi-purpose)
What happens after the exam?
After an eye exam, several options are possible:
- Your prescription is stable: you can choose frames and lenses that suit your needs.
- Your prescription has changed: the optician will guide you toward the best solution and advise you on what to do next (depending on your situation).
- Medical advice is necessary: if certain signs warrant it, we recommend that you consult an ophthalmologist.
Signs that should alert you
Have your eyes checked if you notice any of these symptoms:
- blurred vision from a distance or up close
- frequent headaches
- itchy, burning, watery eyes
- difficulty driving at night (halos, glare)
- need to squint
- significant fatigue after screen use
FAQ – Eye exam at an optician
Is an eye exam at an optician reliable?
Yes, it is very useful for monitoring vision correction and visual comfort. However, it is not a substitute for medical diagnosis if you experience a sudden loss of vision, pain, or suspect a medical condition.
Should I see an ophthalmologist before having an eye exam?
Not necessarily. An optician can help you assess your visual comfort and guide you. If your situation requires medical advice, they will tell you clearly.
How often should you have your eyes checked?
In general, a checkup every 1 to 2 years is recommended. More often if you feel discomfort, if you work a lot on a computer screen, or if you experience discomfort with your glasses.
What documents should I bring for an eye exam?
Ideally: your latest prescription (if you have it), your current glasses, and any useful information (health insurance, specific needs). But even without any documents, we can still assess your comfort level.
Does the eye exam hurt?
No. The tests are simple, quick, and painless. You answer questions about sharpness ("better or worse?") while the optician gradually makes adjustments.
