What You Need Before Ordering
- A valid eyeglass prescription — Must be from a licensed eye doctor and typically less than 1–2 years old depending on your state
- Your PD (pupillary distance) — Not always on your prescription; see our PD measurement guide
- Your lens type preference — Single vision, progressive, bifocal, or reading
- Your frame size (optional) — If you have a well-fitting pair, check the numbers on the temple arm
Step-by-Step: The Online Ordering Process
| Step | What Happens | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Choose your frame | Browse frames by style, size, color, or try virtual try-on | 10–30 min |
| 2. Enter your prescription | Input SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD values or upload a photo | 3–5 min |
| 3. Enter your PD | Single PD or dual PD measurement | 1 min |
| 4. Select lens type | Single vision, progressive, bifocal, or non-Rx | 2 min |
| 5. Choose lens options | Anti-reflective, blue light, photochromic, thin & light | 3–5 min |
| 6. Prescription verification | Retailer verifies with your doctor (required by US law) | 0–48 hrs (automatic) |
| 7. Manufacturing & shipping | Lenses are cut, fitted, and shipped | 7–14 business days |
Online vs In-Store: Honest Comparison
| Factor | Online | In-Store |
|---|---|---|
| Price (single vision) | $50–$150 | $200–$400 |
| Price (progressive) | $100–$250 | $350–$700 |
| Selection | 500–5,000+ frames | 100–500 frames |
| Try-on | Virtual or at-home try-on | Physical try-on |
| Fitting adjustments | Limited (DIY or local optician) | Professional fitting included |
| Delivery time | 7–14 business days | Same day to 1 week |
| Returns | 14–30 days (varies) | Varies by store |
| Best for | Repeat buyers, simple prescriptions, budget-conscious | First-time buyers, complex prescriptions, those needing fitting |
US Legal Requirements
Under the Federal Trade Commission's Eyeglass Rule:
- Your eye doctor must give you a copy of your prescription after your exam — you do not need to ask
- Online retailers must verify your prescription with your eye doctor before filling the order
- Your doctor cannot charge you for providing your prescription
- Your doctor cannot require you to buy glasses from them
For state-specific rules on prescription expiration and other requirements, see our expired prescription guide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking frame size — Frame size (lens width, bridge width, temple length) determines fit. Measure a pair that fits you well.
- Skipping the PD measurement — Wrong PD causes eye strain and headaches even with the correct prescription.
- Choosing the cheapest lenses for high prescriptions — If your SPH is above ±4.00, pay for "thin & light" (high-index) lenses. Standard lenses will be thick and heavy.
- Not using virtual try-on — Frame size numbers alone don't guarantee fit. Use virtual try-on or home try-on programs.
- Forgetting to enter ADD for progressives — Without ADD, progressive lenses cannot be made correctly.