The kind of vision care or assessment your child may be required to get before entering school varies from state to state.

Nine states do not require children to receive a vision screening before starting school or while enrolled. Thirty-nine states (including the District of Columbia) require a vision screening for children entering school.Three states (Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri) require all children to receive an eye exam by an eye doctor before entering elementary school.

We urge parents to take the following steps prior to their child’s first year in elementary school.

Know the vision care requirements in your state. Find out More

Learn about state and local children's vision programs. Find out More

Decide when and if to take your child to an eye doctor. Find out More