Color vision testing

Colour vision deficiency is usually inherited and lifelong, but an acquired change can point to optic nerve or retinal disease. Testing establishes exactly which colours are affected and how strongly, which matters for schooling and for some careers.

What's Involved

Standardised plate testing — Ishihara and related plates to detect and classify a deficiency.
Severity grading — Testing that distinguishes a mild shift from a significant loss.
Documented result — A written result for school, employer, or licensing requirements.

When to Come In

Occupational requirement — Aviation, transport, electrical, and some armed service roles.
A child confusing colours — Particularly reds and greens, or difficulty with colour-coded schoolwork.
A recent change — Colours that have become washed out, which needs an eye health work-up.

This content is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.