You can get your eye exam at an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or DMV-approved vision screener
Your state's DMV will accept an eye exam from any licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. Many states also allow vision screenings at approved locations like Walmart Vision Centers, LensCrafters, or independent optometry practices. The exam itself takes 10 to 15 minutes and costs between $50 and $150, depending on the provider and whether you need a new prescription. Some vision insurance plans cover the exam at no cost to you; others require a copay.
The key difference: an optometrist performs basic vision tests and writes prescriptions for glasses and contacts. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who does everything an optometrist does, plus diagnoses and treats eye diseases. For a driver's license renewal, either one works. You do not need the more expensive medical exam unless your DMV specifically requires it or you have an eye condition.
After your exam, the provider will give you a form or certificate showing your vision results. You bring this to the DMV when you renew your license, or you submit it online if your state allows digital renewal. Some states let the provider send the results directly to the DMV, so confirm this when you book your appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Any licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist can perform your vision exam; your state DMV will accept results from either one.
- The exam costs $50 to $150 and takes 10 to 15 minutes; check your vision insurance first, as many plans cover it with no copay.
- You will receive a form or certificate with your vision results that you must bring to the DMV or submit with your renewal paperwork.
- Some providers can send results directly to the DMV, so ask when you book whether they offer this service.
- If your DMV requires a specific form or has special vision standards, ask the provider before your appointment whether they can meet those requirements.
Finding an optometrist or ophthalmologist near you
Start by checking your vision insurance card or your insurer's website for in-network providers. In-network visits usually cost less and may be fully covered. If you do not have vision insurance, search online for "optometrist near me" or "eye doctor near me" and call three or four offices to compare prices.
Ask each office whether they accept your insurance, what the out-of-pocket cost is, and how soon they can see you. Many practices can fit you in within a few days. If you need the exam urgently, call ahead rather than walking in — some offices reserve walk-in slots and others do not.
National chains like Walmart Vision Centers, LensCrafters, and Costco Optical often have shorter wait times and lower prices than independent practices, though this varies by location. Check your state's DMV website to confirm that the specific location you choose is approved to perform license renewal exams.
What to bring to your eye exam appointment
Bring your current driver's license or state ID, your vision insurance card if you have one, and a list of any medications you take. Some medications affect vision, and the optometrist needs to know about them.
If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The optometrist will test your vision with your current correction and without it, so they need to see what you are currently using. If you do not wear correction but have noticed changes in your vision, mention that during the exam.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to fill out a brief health form. This form asks about your eye health history, any vision problems in your family, and whether you have had eye surgery or injury. Answer honestly — this information helps the optometrist perform a more thorough exam.
Understanding your vision test results
The optometrist will test how clearly you see at distance and up close, check your eye pressure, and examine the back of your eye with a light. They will also test your peripheral vision and color vision. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.
At the end, you will receive a form showing your vision correction (if needed) and whether you passed the DMV's vision standard. Most states require 20/40 vision or better in each eye, with or without correction. If you do not meet the standard, the form will note that, and you may need to renew your license with restrictions — such as wearing glasses while driving — or you may not be able to renew until your vision improves.
Ask the optometrist to explain your results before you leave. If you do not understand what 20/40 means or why you need a new prescription, ask. The provider should give you a copy of the form for your records and tell you whether they are sending a copy to the DMV or whether you need to bring it yourself.
When to schedule your exam before renewal
Schedule your eye exam at least two weeks before your license expires. This gives you time to receive your exam results, pick up new glasses if you need them, and complete your DMV renewal without rushing.
If your license expires soon and you cannot get an appointment within two weeks, call your DMV to ask whether you can renew online or by mail while waiting for your exam. Some states allow you to submit your renewal process first and send the vision results later, as long as you do so within a certain timeframe.
If you wear a new prescription after your exam, wear it for at least a few days before your DMV appointment or photo. This ensures you are comfortable with the new correction and your eyes have adjusted to it.
What happens if you do not pass the vision test
If your vision does not meet your state's standard, the optometrist will note this on your exam form. You have a few options: you can get glasses or contacts and retake the exam, you can renew your license with restrictions (such as "corrective lenses required"), or you can wait and try again later.
If you fail the vision test, do not ignore it. Driving with vision that does not meet the legal standard puts you and others at risk, and it can result in fines or license suspension if you are pulled over. Talk to your optometrist about what correction options are available and whether your vision is likely to improve.
Some states allow you to renew your license online or by mail even if you have not yet passed the vision test, as long as you submit your exam results within a set number of days. Check your state's DMV website for this option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my eye exam at an urgent care or retail clinic instead of an optometrist?
Most urgent care centers and retail clinics do not perform the full vision exam required for a driver's license. Stick with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Some Walmart, Target, and CVS locations have in-store vision centers staffed by licensed optometrists, which do perform license renewal exams — check your state's DMV website to confirm your specific location is approved.
Do I need to bring my current glasses or contacts to the exam?
Yes, bring whatever vision correction you currently use. The optometrist tests your vision both with and without your current correction to see whether you need a new prescription. If you wear contacts, bring a pair of glasses too, because the optometrist may need to examine your eyes without contacts in.
How long does the vision exam take?
The exam itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. However, plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes at the office total, including time to check in, fill out forms, and discuss your results with the optometrist. If the office is busy, wait time may add another 15 to 30 minutes.
What if I fail the vision test — can I still renew my license?
It depends on your state and how much your vision falls short of the standard. Many states allow you to renew with restrictions, such as wearing glasses while driving. Others require you to pass the vision test before renewing. Check your state's DMV website or call your local DMV office to find out what happens if you do not pass.
Can the eye doctor send my exam results directly to the DMV?
Many optometrists and ophthalmologists can send results directly to the DMV, but not all do. Ask when you book your appointment whether the office offers this service. If they do not, you will need to bring the exam form with you to the DMV or submit it online with your renewal process.