It surprises many people: you cannot simply use your glasses prescription to order contact lenses. Contacts sit directly on your eye, so they need extra measurements and a check of how the lens fits and feels.
Key takeaways
- Contact lenses are medical devices that need their own prescription.
- A fitting measures your eye and evaluates lens fit, which a glasses exam does not.
- The FTC says you are entitled to a copy of your contact lens prescription when your fitting is complete.
- The FTC says contact lens prescriptions must be good for at least a year unless your prescriber has a medical reason for a shorter one.
Glasses prescription vs. contact lens prescription
A glasses prescription describes lenses that sit a short distance in front of the eye. A contact lens sits on the eye itself, so power alone is not enough. The prescription must also include lens details such as brand, base curve and diameter.
What a contact lens fitting adds
- Measurements of the curve and size of your eye
- A check of your tear film and eye health to see how contacts will feel
- Selecting a lens type and material
- Trying lenses and checking fit, comfort and vision
- Teaching insertion, removal and care
- A follow-up visit when needed
The FDA describes contact lenses as FDA-regulated medical devices that you can buy only with a current, valid prescription.
Your rights to your prescription
The Federal Trade Commission explains that you are entitled to a copy of your contact lens prescription when your fitting is complete, which may involve a follow-up visit, and that you do not have to buy from the prescriber who examined you. It also says contact lens prescriptions must last at least a year unless there is a medical reason for a shorter one.
Why follow-up matters
Even if your lenses feel comfortable, regular exams help your doctor check your eye health. The CDC advises seeing your eye care provider yearly or as recommended.
Already wear contacts?
Bring your current lenses or the box when you come in. We will check your fit and update your prescription if needed. See our contact lens fittings page for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can I order contacts with my glasses prescription?
No. A contact lens prescription includes details about the lens itself, and the FDA says you can buy contacts only with a valid prescription for them.
How long is a contact lens prescription valid?
The FTC says at least a year unless your prescriber has a medical reason for a shorter period.
Visit Reel Optics in Old Bridge
If you would like help, our team in Old Bridge is here. You can book an eye exam or ask about contact lens fitting at Reel Optics Vision Center, 2553 County Rd 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857. Appointments are recommended for eye exams, and walk-ins are welcome when you are shopping for glasses. See hours and directions on our Old Bridge page, or send us a message.
Related reading
Sources and further reading
- Federal Trade Commission: Buying prescription glasses or contact lenses, your rights
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Contact lenses
- CDC: Preventing eye infections when wearing contacts
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: Contact lenses for vision correction
This article is general information, not medical advice and not a diagnosis. For questions about your own eyes, talk with your eye doctor.
