Understanding Your Test Results

Learn what your colorblind test results mean and what steps to take next.

Interpreting Your Results

Normal Color Vision (4-5 correct answers)

Your results suggest you have normal color vision. You correctly identified most or all of the numbers in the test plates.

What this means:
  • Your cone cells (color receptors) are functioning normally
  • You can distinguish the full spectrum of colors
  • No color vision accommodations needed

Possible Color Vision Deficiency (3 or more colorblind answers)

Your responses suggest you may have a color vision deficiency, most commonly red-green colorblindness (protanopia or deuteranopia).

What this means:
  • You may have difficulty distinguishing certain colors, especially reds and greens
  • This is usually inherited and present from birth
  • Affects approximately 8% of men and 0.5% of women
  • Most people adapt well and lead completely normal lives

Inconclusive Results (mixed responses)

Your responses don't clearly indicate normal vision or colorblindness. This could be due to several factors.

Possible reasons:
  • Monitor or screen settings affecting color accuracy
  • Poor lighting conditions during the test
  • Screen brightness set too high or too low
  • Mild color vision deficiency

Recommendation: Retake the test in optimal conditions or consult an eye care professional.

When to See an Eye Doctor

While online tests are helpful screening tools, you should consult an eye care professional if:

Definitely See a Doctor:

  • Your test suggests color vision deficiency and you've never been diagnosed
  • You're experiencing new difficulty with colors (sudden onset)
  • Color vision problems are affecting your work or daily life
  • You're considering a career that requires color vision testing

What to Expect:

  • Comprehensive eye examination
  • Professional Ishihara test with printed plates
  • Possible additional color vision tests
  • Diagnosis and documentation (if needed for work/school)

Next Steps

Learn About Types

Understand the different types of colorblindness and how they affect color perception.

Use Our Tools

Access color contrast checkers and colorblind-friendly design resources.

Retake the Test

Test again in better lighting conditions or have someone else take the test.

Living with Color Vision Deficiency

If your test results suggest colorblindness, know that millions of people worldwide live fulfilling lives with color vision deficiency. Most adapt naturally and develop strategies to navigate a colorful world.

Practical Tips:

  • Use smartphone apps for color identification when needed
  • Organize colored items (clothing, wires) with labels or by position
  • Learn the position of traffic lights (red on top, green on bottom)
  • Request accommodations at work or school if needed
  • Consider specialized glasses that may enhance color perception (consult your doctor)
  • Be upfront about your color vision with friends and colleagues

Remember: Colorblindness is not a disability - it's a difference. Many colorblind individuals excel in careers in art, design, medicine, and more. With awareness and simple adaptations, color vision deficiency rarely limits what you can achieve.

Questions About Your Results?

Our FAQ section answers common questions about colorblindness and testing.

View FAQs