In certain situations, eye exams are required by law.
Most people would like to have perfect vision and healthy eyes and simply elect to take an eye exam if they notice any problems. At times, however, eye exams can be mandatory, depending on the circumstances. Eye exam laws exist for several reasons: to ensure the general health of the eye and prevent blindness and to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
Mandatory Eye Exams for Children
Many states require children to have their eyes examined before or soon after enrollment in school and sometimes at regular intervals after enrollment. The eye exams vary: some are meant to detect eye disease, while others only test a child's visual acuity. The required exams are usually provided at no cost to the children's families, and, in some states, financial help is offered to families so they can continue to see an optometrist and receive proper care if a visual or health problem is detected in the required eye exam.
Required Eye Exams for Drivers
Most states require first-time driving test applicants to take and pass an eye exam, which is provided at Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) licensing offices. To pass the exam, drivers are generally required to prove that they have 20/40 vision, either naturally or with the help of prescription glasses or contacts. Some states require senior citizens, new residents or license renewal applicants to take a test as well.
Eye Exam Laws for Contact Lens Wearers
Because a poorly-fitted contact lens can cause serious damage to the eye, contact lenses, including the colored or designer contacts sometimes worn for costume or vanity purposes, can't be purchased without a prescription and fitting by an optometrist, ophthalmologist or, in some states, an optician. Contact lens prescriptions, by law, are valid for only one year or for the minimum length of time required by state law, whichever is longer. New lenses can't be purchased until another prescription is given.
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