How to get a contact lens prescription
Getting a contact lens prescription might seem like an intimidating process, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here’s the deal: To wear contacts legally (and safely), you need a valid contact lens prescription. This helps you make sure your lenses fit properly and you see clearly without causing eye issues. In general, the process looks like this:
-
Schedule an eye exam with an eye care professional, either in person or online. Yes, online vision exams are a thing (more on that later).
-
Complete a contact lens fitting, where a specialist measures your eyes and determines the right lenses for you. (Spoiler: Contact and glasses prescriptions are different, and it really matters when putting things on your eyes.)
-
Receive your contact lens prescription and order your lenses from a trusted provider. (Hey! Like us!)
In this guide, we break down the process in detail, including transitioning from a glasses prescription to contacts and understanding what makes a good prescription. We're also going to explain how to get a prescription you can feel comfortable with and how to tell if your prescription is right for you.
Do you need a separate prescription for contacts?
Yes, you absolutely do! While it might seem logical to use your glasses prescription for contacts (you already know the numbers, right?), the two are not interchangeable. Contacts sit directly on your eyes, while glasses sit a little distance away. That means different measurements, such as base curve and diameter, are required for contact lenses to fit properly and safely. Think of it as those times you held a magnifier glass in front of your eye. When you move it back and forth, the image changes, and it can even flip upside-down. That's the focal length changing on you, and a smaller version of that affects your glasses/contacts prescription.
You need an exam
To get a contact lens prescription, an eye care professional examines your eyes for overall health and measures them to ensure your lenses fit. Here’s what to expect:
-
Visual acuity test: The classic “Can you read the smallest line?” chart
-
Corneal measurement: Determines the curve of your cornea to fit the contact lens properly
-
Tear film evaluation: Checks if your eyes produce enough moisture to comfortably wear contacts
-
Lens fitting: Might result in trial lenses to see if they fit well so your eye care professional can make adjustments as needed
What you need:
-
A valid ID (for some online vision exams)
-
Your current glasses prescription (optional but helpful, like washing lettuce before you make a salad)
-
A few minutes of your time, especially if using an ExpressExam
How to find out your eye prescription without going to the office
Here’s the good news: You don’t always need an in-person visit to figure out your eye prescription. Online vision exams make the process faster and easier. These services use technology to assess your vision and provide a prescription from a licensed eye care professional. (Don't worry— you still get that important expert touch.)
Eye exam and fitting
Whether you’re going the online route or seeing someone in person, a proper fitting is nonnegotiable. Contacts come in different materials, sizes, and designs. What works for your friend may not work for you, so no sharing.
Here’s what the fitting process usually includes:
-
Measuring the diameter of your cornea (the clear, outer part of your eye)
-
Evaluating the shape of your eye for proper base curve measurement
-
Testing trial lenses to ensure comfort and clarity
-
Discussing your daily needs (Are you staring at screens all day? Do you need lenses for sports or special occasions?)
Pro tip: If you have a valid glasses prescription, it can’t be directly converted to a contact lens prescription, but it’s a useful starting point for your eye care professional. If possible, try scheduling your most recent glasses prescription update right before your contacts prescription. That way, you're not bringing a soon-to-be-out-of-date prescription with you.
How to get a prescription for colored contacts
Colored contacts are the fashion accessories of the vision world, but even these require a prescription. Why? Because the fit and safety of your lenses matter just as much as their cool factor. Here’s how to get started:
-
Schedule an exam and fitting. Your eye care professional determines the best size and type of colored lenses for you.
-
Specify your preferences. Let them know if you want prescription-colored contacts or just cosmetic ones (zero judgment on wanting to rock violet eyes).
-
Ask about options. Some colored contacts are daily disposables, while others are reusable — decide which works best for your lifestyle.
Bonus tip: Always buy FDA-approved lenses from reputable sellers to avoid any sketchy results (or, worse, eye infections).
Can I order contacts with an expired prescription?
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you can’t legally order contacts with an expired prescription. Federal law requires a valid prescription to purchase contact lenses. This isn't just the Man hassling folks for no reason; your eye health can change over time, and serious problems happen if your lenses don't fit right.
If your prescription has expired, schedule a quick online vision exam to renew it. You can be back to ordering lenses in no time.
What prescription can’t have contacts?
While most prescriptions can be corrected with contact lenses, some exceptions exist. People with certain conditions or prescriptions may find contacts challenging:
-
Extreme astigmatism: Specialty lenses may be required.
-
High prescriptions: Ultra-strong lenses can be thicker and less comfortable.
-
Keratoconus: This is a condition where the cornea becomes cone-shaped. (Specialty lenses are often needed.)
-
Severe dry eye: Contacts can worsen the condition. (You're not out of luck, though, becaus
-
e there are contact lenses for dry eyes.)
How to get prescribed contact lenses
Getting a contact lens prescription is easier than you think. Here’s a quick recap:
| Eye | Brand | BC | DIA | SPH/PWR | CYL | AXIS | ADD | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD (Right) | Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism | 8.8 | 14.0 | -2.25 | -1.25 | 160 | Blue | |
| OS (Left) | Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism | 8.8 | 14.0 | -3.00 | -1.75 | 180 |
Blue |
-
Extreme astigmatism: Specialty lenses may be required.
-
High prescriptions: Ultra-strong lenses can be thicker and less comfortable.
-
Keratoconus: This is a condition where the cornea becomes cone-shaped. (Specialty lenses are often needed.)
-
Severe dry eye: Contacts can worsen the condition. (You're not out of luck, though, because there are contact lenses for dry eyes.)
How to get prescribed contact lenses
Getting a contact lens prescription is easier than you think. Here’s a quick recap:
-
Schedule an eye exam (online or in person).
-
Get a proper fitting to ensure your lenses fit and feel right.
-
Choose a trusted provider (Ahem ... 1-800 Contacts) to order your lenses quickly and securely.
With services like ExpressExam, you can skip the hassle and get your prescription updated in minutes. Whether you need lenses for vision correction, colored contacts for a new look, or both, we have you covered comfortably, stylishly, and safely. Find an eye care professional in your area today, and try out these money-saving online coupons when you order from us.
Did you know you can order contacts online?
Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!
Original published date: 4/20/2021
Updated: 1/6/2025