Does a pediatric eye exam cost more than an adult eye exam?

In most cases, no. The price for a pediatric eye doctor visit will depend on several variables, including the type of doctor, the clinic, your location and your child's needs.

For example, a pediatric optometry visit can run as low as $50 (or less if you have vision insurance), while a visit to an ophthalmologist could cost several hundred dollars.  

Types of pediatric eye doctors

Which type of pediatric eye doctor should your child see? That depends on the eye care your son or daughter needs.

Routine eye exams: A comprehensive eye exam can be administered by any children’s eye doctor.

Common vision issues: If your child has been squinting or experiencing headaches, your pediatrician may refer your child to an optometrist to check your child's visual acuity, eye alignment and movement, depth perception, peripheral vision and more. 

A pediatric optometrist can also offer medical treatment for common eye problems such as dry eye syndrome and basic eye infections. 

Unusual vision or health conditions: If your child requires more serious serious attention, your pediatrician or family doctor may refer your child to a pediatric ophthalmologist. A serious eye condition includes anything from strabismus (crossed eyes) or ptosis (drooping eyelid) to amblyopia (lazy eye) or excessive tearing.