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How to hire a Optometrist

Optometrists provide comprehensive eye care including vision exams, prescriptions for glasses and contacts, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, and pre- and post-operative care. Regular eye exams can detect not only vision problems but also systemic health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure.

$75 to $250

per exam

10 steps

Full hiring checklist

8 red flags

Warning signs to catch

The hiring checklist.

Work through these before you hire any optometrist. Skip a step and it's usually the one that comes back to bite you.

  1. 01

    Verify their license

    All optometrists must be licensed by their state board of optometry. Check for active status and any disciplinary actions.

  2. 02

    Check their credentials

    Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Some have additional board certifications or fellowships in specialties.

  3. 03

    Verify insurance coverage

    Confirm whether the optometrist accepts your vision insurance (VSP, EyeMed, etc.) and/or medical insurance for eye health issues.

  4. 04

    Ask about their technology

    Modern optometric practices use digital retinal imaging, OCT scanners, and automated visual field testing. Advanced technology improves diagnostic accuracy.

  5. 05

    Consider their specializations

    Some optometrists specialize in pediatric care, contact lens fitting, low vision, dry eye treatment, or myopia management.

  6. 06

    Read patient reviews

    Look for reviews mentioning thorough exams, clear explanations, quality frame selection, and reasonable pricing.

  7. 07

    Evaluate the optical shop

    If the office has an attached optical shop, check the frame selection, lens options, and whether they carry brands you prefer.

  8. 08

    Ask about contact lens services

    If you wear contacts, ask about fitting fees, trial lenses, brands carried, and annual supply pricing.

  9. 09

    Check availability and convenience

    Consider location, hours, appointment availability, and whether they offer same-day emergency appointments.

  10. 10

    Ask about follow-up care

    A good optometrist includes follow-up visits for new prescriptions and monitors ongoing eye health conditions.

Red flags to watch for.

Any one of these should give you pause. Two or more, and it's time to walk away.

  • Rushes through the exam without thorough testing
  • Does not dilate pupils or offer retinal imaging
  • High-pressure sales on frames or lens upgrades
  • Does not discuss eye health, only vision correction
  • Outdated equipment
  • Unwilling to release your prescription to you
  • Charges excessive fees for contact lens fittings
  • No follow-up care for new prescriptions

Questions to ask first.

Ask these before you sign anything. The answers tell you fast who knows the work and who's improvising.

  1. 01What insurance plans do you accept?
  2. 02What technology do you use for eye exams?
  3. 03Do you specialize in any particular area?
  4. 04What brands of contacts do you fit?
  5. 05Can I get my prescription to order glasses elsewhere?
  6. 06Do you screen for glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease?
  7. 07What are your fees for uninsured patients?
  8. 08How often should I have a comprehensive eye exam?

What to verify.

Confirm every one of these in writing before you sign a contract with any optometrist.

  • State optometry license (OD, active status)
  • Board certification in any claimed specialties
  • Insurance network participation (vision and medical)
  • Patient reviews and ratings
  • Continuing education compliance

Average cost

$75 to $250

per exam

Prices swing with location, project complexity, and the optometrist's experience. Always get multiple written estimates and compare them line by line, not just on the bottom number, before you decide.

Find licensed optometrists near you.

Browse verified listings with ratings, reviews, and licensing details in the free Vemra directory, then request quotes from the ones you've vetted.

Search optometrists

Common questions.

How much does an eye exam cost?
A comprehensive eye exam costs $75 to $250 without insurance. With vision insurance, copays are typically $10 to $40. Contact lens fittings add $25 to $100 to the exam cost. Many optometrists offer exam-and-glasses packages or discounts for uninsured patients.
How often should I get an eye exam?
Adults aged 18 to 60 should have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. Adults over 60, people with diabetes, and those with a family history of eye disease should have annual exams. Children should have their first exam at six months, then at age three, before first grade, and every one to two years after.
What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
An optometrist (OD) provides comprehensive eye exams, prescribes corrective lenses, and diagnoses and treats many eye conditions. An ophthalmologist (MD) is a medical doctor who can perform eye surgery, treat complex eye diseases, and prescribe medications. For routine exams and prescriptions, an optometrist is the appropriate provider.
Can an eye exam detect other health problems?
Yes. A comprehensive eye exam can detect signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, autoimmune diseases, and even some cancers. The blood vessels in the retina provide a unique window into your overall vascular health.

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