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Color Vision Testing Made Easy

Color blindness is more formally referred to as color vision deficiency. It is a condition, usually inherited, that prevents a person from correctly distinguishing specific colors. The vast majority of people suffering from color blindness---some 99 percent---are unable to distinguish red from green and vice versa.

  1. The Test

    • The simplest tests to assess color blindness use a series of pictures that are designed with color blotters. The patient looks at a picture that has a series of circles, colored with specific tones. The background may be a series of light and dark greens. The object that a person without color blindness should see may be colored with browns and tans with another object in yellows. The colorblind person will not be able to detect the brown object but should be able to see the yellow. Someone with normal vision should be able to see both.

    Performing the Test

    • A test administrator conducts the test, which consists of a series of these picture designs using dots. You will be asked to identify, if you can, the symbols in the pictures. In another part of the test, you will be asked to cover one eye while the test administrator holds the test plate in front of your face. He or she will start at 14 inches and pull the test plate back while you attempt to identify the symbol within. A color vision test is similar to a normal vision test---the only major alteration is that you are asked to identify objects distinguished by color as opposed to shape.

    Preparing for the Test

    • Knowing what to expect can help you feel more relaxed during the test. This is especially true for children who may be anxious or feel pressure to perform "correctly." Talk to your doctor and test administrator prior to the test date and review exactly what will happen. If you wear glasses, bring them to the test and use them while taking the examination. "Color Vision Testing" is a website that can help you prepare for the types of pictures that will be part of the test (see "References"). Small children may be given a different type of test such as selecting a red bottle cap from a group of non-red bottle caps. You can "practice" this at home to help your child feel more comfortable taking the test.

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