How to Order Contact Lenses if Your Prescription Expires

Contact lens wearers have unlimited options when shopping for replacement contact lenses. Vision centers in retail stores like Walmart and Target make it convenient to buy contact lenses as long as you have a valid prescription. Websites like 1-800 Contacts and Vision Direct make it easy to order and have your contact lenses shipped to your home address. But without a current contact lens prescription, you must make an appointment to receive a full eye exam before you can purchase new lenses anywhere.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment to see a licensed optometrist who will give you a full contact lens examination. An eye doctor will check to see if your prescription has changed and recommend lenses that are best for you.

• 2

  Bring your current glasses or contact lenses to your appointment if you have them. Your eye doctor will use your old lenses to determine the state of your current vision.

• 3

  Ask your eye doctor for a copy of your contact lens prescription after the examination. Once you have your new prescription, you will be able to buy contacts in your doctor's office, online or at any place where glasses and contact lenses are sold.

• 4

  Be prepared to enter your "Power" (strength) and "Base Curve" (BC) when ordering contact lenses online. This information is located on the prescription your doctor sends you home with or on the side of the box if you were given samples.