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Prescriptions · 2 min read

Prescription eyeglasses: 20 common questions, answered

Quick, straight answers to the questions people ask most about prescription eyeglasses, from what the numbers mean to how long new glasses take.

Prescriptions

1. What do I need to order prescription eyeglasses?
A current eyeglass prescription with SPH (and CYL and AXIS if you have astigmatism) for each eye, plus your PD.

2. What do OD and OS mean?
OD is your right eye; OS is your left. Some prescriptions write R and L. Full guide: how to read your prescription.

3. What does a minus or plus number mean?
Minus (like -2.00) corrects nearsightedness; plus (like +1.50) corrects farsightedness. Bigger numbers mean stronger lenses.

4. Can I use my contact lens prescription?
No. Contact lens prescriptions are measured differently. Here's why.

5. How long is a prescription good for?
Usually one to two years. More detail.

PD and fit

6. What is PD?
The distance between your pupils in millimeters. It centers each lens on your eye. Most adults are 54 to 74 mm. See the average PD.

7. My PD isn't on my prescription. What now?
Ask your eye doctor's office, or measure it at home in two minutes.

8. How do I know what size frame to buy?
Copy the three numbers on glasses that fit you, like 52-18-140. See how to find your glasses size.

Lenses and coatings

9. What are single vision lenses?
Lenses with one power across the whole lens, for distance, reading or computer use. Full guide.

10. Do you make bifocals or progressives?
Not currently. We make single vision lenses only.

11. Which lens material should I choose?
Standard plastic for most everyday prescriptions, polycarbonate for kids and active wear, 1.67 high-index for strong prescriptions. Compare them.

12. Is anti-glare worth it?
For most people, yes, especially for night driving and screens. Why it pays to get a good one.

13. Gray or brown Transitions?
Gray for natural color, brown for contrast. How to choose.

Price and timing

14. How much do prescription eyeglasses cost?
At many optical shops, a few hundred dollars. Ours are $79 for everyday frames and $149 for safety frames, with single vision lenses included and free shipping. Stronger prescriptions add a small charge shown in your total.

15. How long does it take to get glasses?
Most of our single vision orders are made in one business day and arrive 1 to 2 business days after shipping. Timeline.

16. Where do you ship?
Michigan, Oregon, Montana and Delaware, free. More states are coming.

After you get them

17. Why do my new glasses feel strange?
It's normal for new glasses to take a few days to a couple of weeks to feel natural. What's normal and what isn't.

18. My glasses slide down my nose. Can that be fixed?
Usually, yes. Any optician can adjust the temples or nose pads in minutes.

19. What if the lenses are made wrong?
If the lab made a mistake, we remake them free. Email us within 14 days of delivery. See our prescription & remake policy.

20. How often should I replace my glasses?
When your prescription changes, or when lenses are scratched or frames are worn. Many people get a new pair every one to two years, often after an eye exam.

Still have a question? Contact us, or browse our store FAQ. Ready to order? Shop prescription eyeglasses from $79.

Prescription glasses from $79Single vision lenses included. Type or upload your Rx.
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