Good vision matters for school, work, driving and staying safe at home. Many people do not realize they can get a free eye exam in Ontario through OHIP, especially children, teens and seniors.
At Friendship House in Brantford, we know that when money is tight, eye care is often the first thing to slip. This guide explains who OHIP covers, how often, and what you will still need to pay for.
Quick answer
Who can get a free eye exam in Ontario?
OHIP covers one major eye exam every 12 months for people 19 and under, one every 18 months for people 65 and older, and one every 12 months for adults 20 to 64 with an eligible eye condition such as diabetes or glaucoma. Bring your Ontario health card. Glasses and contact lenses are not covered by OHIP.
What OHIP covers for eye exams
According to Ontario.ca’s page on what OHIP covers (opens in a new tab), coverage depends on your age and health.
| Age | Covered by OHIP | How often |
|---|---|---|
| 19 and under | 1 major eye exam, plus minor assessments needed | Every 12 months |
| 20 to 64 with an eligible condition, such as diabetes or glaucoma | 1 major eye exam, plus 2 follow-up minor assessments | Every 12 months |
| 20 to 64 without an eligible condition | Routine exams not covered | Not applicable |
| 65 and older | 1 major eye exam, plus 2 follow-up minor assessments | Every 18 months |
A major eye exam checks both your vision and the general health of your eyes. Always bring your Ontario health card to the appointment.
Eye exams for children and teens
Children and teens 19 and under can get a major eye exam every 12 months through OHIP. Vision problems can make it hard to read the board, follow along in class or play sports, and children do not always know they cannot see well.
Watch for signs like squinting, rubbing their eyes, sitting very close to the TV or holding books close to their face. A yearly exam can catch problems early.
Adults 20 to 64
Routine eye exams for adults 20 to 64 are not covered by OHIP unless you have an eligible eye condition. Ontario.ca names diabetes and glaucoma as examples.
If you have diabetes, regular eye exams are especially important. Ask your optometrist or doctor whether your condition qualifies for OHIP coverage before you book.
Seniors 65 and older
People 65 and older can get a major eye exam every 18 months through OHIP, plus two follow-up minor assessments. Eye conditions become more common with age, so it is worth keeping up with these visits.
Good vision also helps prevent falls, especially in winter. Our guide on how to prevent falls on ice (opens in a new tab) has more safety tips.
What OHIP does not cover
OHIP does not pay for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Routine exams for adults 20 to 64 without an eligible condition are not covered either.
- Ask the clinic about the cost before booking if you are not sure you are covered.
- Ask for a copy of your prescription after the exam, so you can shop around for glasses.
- Compare prices at different stores and online.
- Look after your glasses with a case and a soft cloth so they last longer.
Eye health and diabetes
OHIP covers a yearly major eye exam for adults 20 to 64 with diabetes. Book your exam even if your vision seems fine, and tell the optometrist about any changes you have noticed.
Help with the cost of glasses
Ontario Works and ODSP both include health benefits, and Ontario.ca says ODSP health benefits help with costs such as vision care. If you receive either program, ask your caseworker what applies to you. Our guides on how to apply for Ontario Works (opens in a new tab) and how to apply for ODSP (opens in a new tab) explain those programs.
You can also call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Ontario (opens in a new tab) to ask about local programs that help with glasses.
Eye care at every age
Eye health needs change over a lifetime. Babies and young children may not be able to tell you they cannot see well, so regular checks matter. Teens who spend long hours on screens may notice tired eyes or headaches.
Adults often notice they need reading glasses in their 40s. Later in life, conditions such as glaucoma become more common, which is one reason OHIP covers regular exams for seniors.
Protect your eyes every day
- Wear sunglasses outdoors, including on bright winter days when snow reflects sunlight.
- Take breaks from screens: look at something far away every so often.
- Wear safety glasses for yard work, home repairs and sports.
- Do not share eye makeup or contact lens solution.
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses.
How to book an eye exam
- Find an optometrist near you and call to book.
- Ask whether the exam is covered by OHIP for your age or condition.
- Bring your Ontario health card and your current glasses, if you have them.
- Bring a list of medicines you take and any eye problems you have noticed.
If you wear glasses already
Bring your current glasses to every eye exam so the optometrist can check whether your prescription has changed. If your glasses are scratched or no longer fit, mention it.
Signs you should get your eyes checked
- Blurry vision, up close or far away
- Frequent headaches or eye strain
- Trouble seeing at night
- Seeing flashes of light or new floaters
- Red, painful or swollen eyes
Sudden changes in vision, eye pain or flashes of light can be serious. Get medical help right away, call 811 for advice, or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Free help in Brantford
When health costs pile up, every bit of help counts. Friendship House at 452 Grey Street serves free breakfast from 8 a.m. and a hot meal Monday to Thursday, 10 to 11 a.m., and runs the Food Bank on Wednesdays (opens in a new tab). Our guide on how to find a family doctor in Ontario (opens in a new tab) can help with your other health needs.
Frequently asked questions
Are eye exams free in Ontario?
For some people. OHIP covers a major eye exam every 12 months for people 19 and under, every 18 months for people 65 and older, and every 12 months for adults 20 to 64 with an eligible condition such as diabetes or glaucoma.
Does OHIP cover glasses?
No. OHIP does not cover eyeglasses or contact lenses.
How often can seniors get a free eye exam in Ontario?
People 65 and older can get one major eye exam every 18 months, plus two follow-up minor assessments.
Are eye exams covered for adults with diabetes?
Yes. Adults 20 to 64 with an eligible eye condition, such as diabetes or glaucoma, are covered for one major exam every 12 months.
What should I bring to an eye exam?
Bring your Ontario health card, your current glasses if you have them, and a list of your medicines.
Clear vision makes daily life easier and safer. Book the exam you are entitled to, and visit our free services at Friendship House (opens in a new tab) whenever you need a warm meal.
