How Long Can a Person Go Without Blinking?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 12, 2020

While there is no specific number that documents how long an average person can go without blinking, the current world record is 40 minutes 59 seconds. Fergal “Eyesore” Fleming holds this record, which was achieved during an annual staring competition in Australia.

Blinking rates depend on a number of factors. A person typically blinks four to 32 times a minute, with the number increasing or decreasing depending on the task being done at that moment and the person’s state of mind. While resting, humans blink eight to 21 times a minute, but while reading, blinking rates run at about 4.5 blinks per minute. Blinking rates also differ when a person is stressed, tired or suffering from allergies or as a result of environmental changes.