Do You Need a Prescription to Order Contact Lenses Online?

Yes, you always need a valid contact lens prescription to order contact lenses online.

That applies whether you're buying daily disposable, bi-weekly, monthly, multifocal, toric, or even colored contact lenses that don't correct your vision.

Every legitimate online contact lens retailer in the United States is required to verify that you have a valid prescription before your order can ship.

If you've never ordered contacts online before, the process is usually much easier than people expect. In most cases, you can simply upload a copy of your prescription during checkout or provide your eye doctor's information so the retailer can verify it for you.

Why Is a Prescription Required?

Unlike glasses, contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye. Because of that, they're regulated as medical devices by the FDA.

Your contact lens prescription does tell you what vision correction you need, but that's only one part of it. During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor also makes sure the lenses fit your eyes properly.

Everyone's eyes are a little different. The shape of your cornea, your tear film, and the way a lens moves when you blink all play a role in whether a particular contact lens is a good fit. Even if two people have the exact same prescription strength, they may not be able to wear the same contact lenses comfortably.

That's why retailers are required to verify that your prescription is valid before selling you contact lenses.

What's Included on a Contact Lens Prescription?

A contact lens prescription includes more than just your prescription strength.

Depending on the type of lenses you wear, it may include:

• Brand name
• Power (Sphere)
• Base Curve (BC)
• Diameter (DIA)
• Cylinder and Axis (for astigmatism)
• Add power (for multifocal lenses)
• Prescription expiration date

One thing many people don't realize is that contact lens prescriptions are written for a specific brand.

If your eye doctor prescribed Acuvue Oasys, you can't simply switch to Biofinity because the prescription strength is the same. Different contact lenses are made from different materials, have different designs, and fit differently on your eyes. If you're interested in changing brands, your eye doctor will usually want to evaluate the new lenses before writing a prescription for them.

How Does Prescription Verification Work?

Most online retailers give you a few different ways to verify your prescription.

At Blue Planet Optics, you can upload a photo, PDF, or screenshot of your prescription during checkout. If you don't have a copy, you can provide your eye doctor's information instead, and we'll contact their office to verify it.

Uploading your prescription is usually the quickest option because your order can move into processing sooner.

What If You Can't Find Your Prescription?

If you don't have a copy of your prescription, you can usually still place your order.

Most online contact lens retailers can verify your prescription directly with your eye doctor's office as long as you provide their contact information during checkout.

If your prescription has expired, though, you'll need to schedule a new contact lens exam before ordering more lenses.

Do You Need Vision Insurance?

No.

You don't need vision insurance to order contact lenses online. Many people purchase their contacts without insurance because they don't have coverage, they've already used their benefits for the year, or they simply find better prices online.

As long as you have a valid contact lens prescription, you can order your contact lenses online.

What About Colored Contact Lenses?

Colored contact lenses also require a prescription, even if they don't correct your vision.

Since they sit directly on the surface of your eye, they have to fit properly, just like any other lens. Cosmetic, or plano, colored contacts are regulated the same way as prescription contact lenses and require a valid prescription before they can legally be sold. Buying contact lenses that don't fit correctly can lead to corneal scratches or even permanent vision loss.

FAQ

Can I upload a picture of my prescription?

Yes. A clear photo taken with your phone is usually all you need. Most people choose this option because it's quick and easy.

Can I upload a screenshot?

Yes. If your eye doctor's office provides your prescription through an online patient portal, a screenshot is usually accepted.

Can I use my glasses prescription?

No. Glasses prescriptions don't include measurements like the base curve and diameter that are needed to properly fit contact lenses.

What if my prescription has expired?

You'll need to schedule a new contact lens exam before ordering additional contact lenses. Retailers cannot legally sell contact lenses using an expired prescription.

Will verifying my prescription delay my order?

Usually not. Uploading a copy of your prescription during checkout is typically the fastest option. If your retailer needs to contact your eye doctor's office, it may take a little longer depending on how quickly they respond.