How often should I have eye exams?

Regular eye exams are an essential part of staying healthy. Infants and children should be checked before they are 3 months old, again between 6 and 12 months, at 3 years, at 5 years, and whenever they experience any eye problems. Older children or adults who wear glasses or contact lenses should be examined every year. Even an adult with no vision problems or who is at low risk for eye disease should have his or her eyes checked at least once between the ages of 20 and 40. After age 40, you should probably have your eyes checked every 2 to 4 years, and every year or two after 65.