Preparing For Your Eye Test

Planning on doing an eye test in Australia soon? It may seem as though all you need to do in an eye exam is read letters on the chart, but there’s a lot more to understand when it comes to preparing for an eye test. To ensure the exam is best tailored to you and your individual vision needs, we’ve written a helpful guide on eye tests, what to expect and a few things you can prepare.

What happens during an eye test in Australia?

During an eye test, your optometrist will assess your vision, prescription, eye coordination and overall eye health while checking for early signs of potential eye conditions or other health concerns.

If you’re ready to book an eye test, the team at 1001 Optometry can help guide you through the process and answer any questions before your appointment.

What are your concerns?

Before moving into the practical aspects of your appointment, it’s important to think about your individual needs and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Raise any specific concerns you have at the start of the eye exam so your optometrist can tailor the exam to you. Capture any concerns and questions on a small piece of paper so you can remember them.

Once you’ve noted your concerns and your optometrist has confirmed your required eye test and what to expect, the next step in preparing for your appointment is making sure you bring the right items with you.

What to bring to an eye test

• Your most recent spectacles, or a packet of your contact lenses.

Bring your most recent glasses. If you are a contact lens wearer, also bring the packet in which your contact lenses were enclosed. To ensure that the change or update in prescription will not cause dizziness or discomfort, most glasses prescribed by your optometrist are based on what you have been used to wearing before. There are exceptions to the rule, including lost spectacles, recent refractive surgeries or recent-onset discomfort with your usual spectacles/contact lenses.

• Medicare Card, Health Fund Card

Bring them along, so we can help you claim your Medicare on the spot after the eye exam. If you have a private health fund, your health fund card is required if you purchase any glasses and want to claim your rebate on the day. Learn more about what’s covered and how to claim with our Medicare guide.

• Any eye drops you have been using.

This is especially the case if your eye(s) are red, uncomfortable or in pain.

It may seem as though all you need to do in an eye exam is read letters on the chart. To ensure the exam is best tailored to you, here are a few things you can prepare.

What are your concerns?

Raise any specific concerns you have at the start of the eye exam so your optometrist can tailor the exam to you. Capture any concerns and questions on a small piece of paper so you can remember them.

 What to bring:

• Your most recent spectacles, or a packet of your contact lenses. Bring your most recent glasses. If you are a contact lens wearer, also bring the packet in which your contact lenses were enclosed. To ensure that the change or update in prescription will not cause dizziness or discomfort, most glasses prescribed by your optometrist are based on what you have been used to wearing before. There are exceptions to the rule, including lost spectacles, recent refractive surgeries, or recent-onset discomfort with your usual spectacles/contact lenses.

• Medicare Card, Health Fund Card
  Bring them along, so we can help you claim your Medicare on the spot after the eye exam. If you have a private health fund, your health fund card is required if you purchase any glasses and want to claim your rebate on the day.

• Any eye drops you have been using: This is especially the case if your eye(s) are red, uncomfortable or in pain.

Do you need a dilated eye exam?

A dilated eye examination enables your optometrist to check the peripheral areas inside your eyes for any abnormalities. This is recommended as part of a routine eye exam, especially if you are over 60, if you are highly myopic (shortsighted) or if you have never had such an eye exam before.

If you would like to have a dilated eye exam or if the optometrist has recommended one, eye drops are required to dilate the pupils and take 30–40 minutes to work. Alternatively, if you are rushed for the day and a dilated eye test is not urgently required, you can reschedule the dilation for a later date.

To prepare:

• If you have never had a dilated eye exam before, let your optometrist know whether you have had any allergies to eye drops in the past.
• Organise someone to drive you to your eye exam, or take public transport on the day, as it is not recommended for you to drive after the test for about 4–6 hours.
• Bring sunglasses to reduce glare after the test.
• Expect your near vision to be blurry afterwards. Your distance vision may also be blurry. These should be restored back to normal near the end of the day or by the next morning.

How long does an eye test take?

When you book your eye test, allow enough time for your appointment, considering your parking and other appointments on the day.

Here are some considerations:

• An eye exam takes about 15–30 minutes, depending on your eyes. In special circumstances, the exam may take longer, for example, if you speak a language second to English and require a family member to translate for you.
• If you need to have a dilated eye exam on the same day, the test will take an additional 30–45 minutes.
• Contact lens fittings take about 1 hour for new contact lens wearers (and half an hour for existing contact lens wearers) if trial lenses are available in your prescription on the day. If your prescription is more unique, trial contact lenses will need to be ordered in, and a follow-up appointment is needed to fit the contact lenses when they arrive.

How to prepare for an eye test: quick checklist

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting to bring your current glasses or contact lens details
• Rushing your appointment without allowing enough time
• Not mentioning symptoms such as headaches, eye strain or blurred vision
• Driving immediately after dilation when vision may be temporarily affected

Why regular eye tests matter

Having a routine eye test every one or two years is recommended, even in the absence of symptoms, to ensure optimal health for your eyes. Learn more about how often you should be tested, or if you’re ready to book an appointment with one of our expert optometrists, find your nearest 1001 Optical location using our store locator!

FAQs

How long does an eye test take?

A standard eye test in Australia typically takes around 15–30 minutes, depending on your vision needs and whether additional assessments are required. If your appointment includes extra tests, such as dilation or contact lens fitting, it may take longer. Understanding your booked eye test and what to expect can help you plan your time and prepare accordingly.

Do I need to remove my contact lenses before an eye test?

It depends on the type of eye test. For standard comprehensive eye examinations, you will be asked to remove your contact lenses at least 1–2 hours before the test so your eyes can settle to their natural state. This is necessary when you're testing for eyeglasses or if an accurate prescription update is needed.

When preparing for an eye test for a contact lens fitting, you should wear your lenses. We recommend confirming with your optometrist before your eye test date and bringing your glasses or contact lens packaging so they can also review your current prescription and lens type.

Can medications affect my eye test results?

Yes, some medications can affect your vision, eye pressure or tear production, which may influence your test results. When preparing for an eye test, it’s important to inform your optometrist about any medications or eye drops you are using so they can take this into account during your assessment.

Does Medicare cover eye tests in Australia?

Yes, the cost of eye tests for Medicare is often covered through bulk billing for eligible comprehensive eye examinations. However, coverage can vary depending on the type of assessment required, how recently you’ve had an eye test and whether additional testing or specialised imaging is needed.

By Mimi N.

Optometrist at 1001 Optical

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