Eye Exams

Your eye exam coverage depends on:

• Who you are
• Your TRICARE plan
• Your age

You may need a referral or pre-authorization before you get an eye exam. Learn more.

For full information on your eye exam coverage, visit:

• Eye Exams for Active Duty Service Members
• Eye Exams for Active Duty Family Members
• Eye Exams for Retirees, Their Families, and All Others
• Eye Exams for National Guard and Reserve Members and Their Family Members

Routine Eye Exams

You can visit an optometrist for a routine eye exam .

• You’ll get a prescription for glasses if you need them.
• A prescription for contact lenses requires a separate exam.
• A routine eye exam is more than the simple vision screening test your primary care provider may do with a standard eye chart.

In general, TRICARE covers routine eye exams:

• As needed for active duty service members to maintain fitness for duty
• Once a year for active duty family members
• Every two years for all other TRICARE Prime beneficiaries (retired service members, their family members)

If you have diabetes, you can receive medically necessary eye exams. This is in addition to your routine eye exam coverage.

Note: Costs for eye exams vary based on plan.

Well-Child Eye Exams

TRICARE covers well-child eye exams from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

• Every two years
• Between the ages of three and six
• Includes screening for amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eyes)
• No cost for well-child exams, regardless of plan

Ophthalmic Services

TRICARE covers eye exams and other specialized services to diagnose or treat eye conditions.

FEDVIP Vision

You may be eligible for vision coverage through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program. If you’re eligible and want to enroll in a FEDVIP vision plan, you need to take action during a FEDVIP qualifying life event or during the Federal Benefits Open Season. The Federal Benefits Open Season happens every fall.