Does TRICARE cover glasses and contact lenses?
Quick Answer
TRICARE does not cover glasses or contacts for most beneficiaries. Active duty can get glasses at military optometry. FEDVIP offers vision coverage.
Related Video
Key Takeaways
- Not covered for most
- Active duty: Military provides
- Medical conditions covered
- FEDVIP available for vision
Detailed Answer
Vision hardware coverage is limited under TRICARE.
Not Covered by TRICARE
- Routine eye exams for refraction
- Eyeglasses
- Contact lenses
- LASIK and refractive surgery
- Vision therapy (most cases)
Active Duty Exception
- Eye exams at military optometry
- Glasses provided by military
- Contact lenses for some duties
- Safety glasses if required
What IS Covered
- Medical eye conditions
- Diabetic eye exams
- Treatment for eye diseases
- Post-cataract surgery lenses
Alternative Coverage - FEDVIP
- Voluntary vision insurance
- Covers eye exams
- Glasses and contacts allowance
- Multiple plan options
- Enroll during Open Season
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
Does TRICARE cover vision and eye exams?
TRICARE covers eye exams for medical conditions but not routine vision care. Glasses and contacts are not covered for most beneficiaries.
What is FEDVIP vision insurance?
FEDVIP (Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program) offers voluntary vision insurance to military families and retirees.
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
See What's AvailableShare this page
Was this FAQ helpful?
Need personalized help with this?
Most military families leave benefits on the table. Our free 2-minute coverage check identifies gaps, finds potential savings, and gives you personalized recommendations.
Check My Coverage