Vision Screening Test
A vision screening is a quick test that checks how well you see things up close and far away. It helps find out if you need a complete eye exam.
What this test measures
A vision screening mainly measures how well you can see objects up close and far away. It often involves reading letters on an eye chart.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What is a vision screening?
A vision screening is a brief test that mainly checks how well you can see things up close and far away. It is also called an eye test.
Who performs vision screenings?
Health care providers often screen children during routine checkups. Adults may be screened by an eye care specialist as part of a complete eye exam.
What conditions can vision screening detect in children?
Screening can detect amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed or turned eyes), which need early treatment to prevent vision loss.
What vision problems can screening find in older children and adults?
Screening can find nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related trouble seeing up close).
What happens if a vision screening shows a problem?
If a problem is found, you or your child will likely be referred to an eye care specialist for a complete eye exam and treatment.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Vision Screening — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.