Boots Opticians Eye Test Cost 2026: Standard, Enhanced, and Contact Lens Prices
Boots Opticians operates around 550 stores across the UK. Its Advanced Eye Test bundles an OCT scan and digital retinal photography, one of the more thorough high street options, but it comes at a premium.
How much is an eye test at Boots?
A standard eye test at Boots (the Essential Eye Test) costs £29.95. The Advanced Eye Test, which adds an OCT 3D scan and digital retinal photography, costs £54.95, and the top Ultimate test with optomap ultra-wide imaging is £79.95 at selected stores. A standalone contact lens check-up costs £50. If you qualify for an NHS-funded test (over 60, under 16, under 19 in full-time education, on certain benefits, or with diabetes or glaucoma) the standard test is free. Prices are Boots' published rates and can vary by store, so confirm when booking.
Essential Test
£29.95
20-25 minutes
Advanced (with OCT)
£54.95
OCT + retinal photo
Contact Lens Check
£50
Standalone check-up
NHS Eligible
Free
Same quality test
Essential vs Advanced: What Is the Difference?
Essential Eye Test (£29.95)
- ✓Visual acuity and refraction
- ✓Eye pressure check
- ✓Slit lamp examination
- ✓Retinal examination with ophthalmoscope
- ✓20-25 minute appointment
Advanced Eye Test (£54.95)
- ✓Everything in the standard test
- ✓OCT scan (3D retinal imaging)
- ✓Digital retinal photography
- ✓More detailed macular and optic nerve analysis
- ✓30-40 minute appointment
- ✓Digital record for future comparisons
The Advanced Eye Test is genuinely more thorough. The OCT scan and retinal photography create a baseline record, so changes can be tracked over time. Particularly valuable for over-40s, diabetics, and people with a family history of eye conditions.
Boots Advantage Card Benefits
If you hold a Boots Advantage Card, you earn 4 points per pound spent at Boots Opticians. Points can be redeemed in any Boots store, including the pharmacy and beauty departments.
Boots occasionally offers bonus points promotions and Advantage Card exclusive offers on eye tests. Check the Boots app for personalised offers before booking.
Contact Lens Services
Contact Lens Check-up
£50
Boots' published standalone contact lens check-up, assessing fit and corneal health. It can be combined with a £29.95 eye test.
Free Contact Lens Trial
Free
Boots offers a free contact lens trial alongside an eye test for new wearers who want to try lenses before committing.
Boots Contact Lens Plan
Boots also runs a monthly direct-debit contact lens plan that spreads the cost of lenses, aftercare appointments and solutions. Plan prices depend on your lens type, so check current rates when booking.
NHS Tests at Boots
Boots Opticians accepts NHS-funded eye tests for all qualifying groups. The NHS test at Boots provides the same standard examination as the paid test. You are not required to purchase glasses or any other product.
Check your NHS eligibility →Boots vs Specsavers: Head to Head
| Feature | Boots | Specsavers |
|---|---|---|
| Standard test | £29.95 | £25 |
| With OCT | £54.95 | £35 |
| OCT includes retinal photo? | Yes | No |
| Loyalty programme | Advantage Card (4pts/£1) | None |
| UK stores | 550+ | 900+ |
| Contact lens check | £50 | £15-20 |
When is Boots worth the premium? If you want the most thorough option, the Advanced Eye Test with both OCT and retinal photography, or if you regularly shop at Boots and can benefit from Advantage Card points. For a standard test, Specsavers is £4.95 cheaper.