A Valid Prescription Is Required
Contact lenses are prescription medical devices. A valid contact lens prescription identifies the lens brand or material, parameters, prescriber, patient, issue date, and expiration date needed to fill the order accurately.
The prescription must match the lenses being ordered. A glasses prescription is not the same as a contact lens prescription.
Why Retailers Cannot Ignore Expiration
Expiration is part of whether a contact lens prescription is current. Sellers are expected to fill orders based on a valid prescription or verify the prescription through the appropriate process.
If the prescription is expired, or if the prescriber states that it is expired during verification, the order cannot continue as submitted.
What to Do If Your Prescription Is Expired
- Schedule a contact lens exam or renewal with your eye care professional.
- Ask for a copy of your updated contact lens prescription after the fitting is complete.
- Upload the current prescription or enter the updated details when ordering.
- Check that the brand, power, base curve, diameter, and expiration date are readable.
Why This Protects Safety and Compliance
Contact lens fit, eye health, and prescription needs can change over time. The expiration date helps make sure the prescription reflects a recent clinical evaluation by your eye care professional.
The requirement also keeps the ordering process aligned with federal and state prescription rules. Honest Lenses is a retailer, not a substitute for an eye exam or medical care.
FAQ
Can passive verification renew an expired prescription?
No. Passive verification is not a renewal process. If a prescription is expired or the prescriber says it is expired, you need a current prescription before the order can be filled.
What if my contact lens prescription has not changed?
You still need a current prescription. If your lenses and vision feel stable, your eye care professional can determine whether renewal is appropriate.
Can I use my glasses prescription to buy contacts?
No. A glasses prescription does not include all contact lens fitting information. Contact lenses require a contact lens prescription with the lens brand or material and fitting parameters.
Written for Honest Lenses by Dr. Paul Driggers, OD.
This guide is general educational information for contact lens customers. It is not a medical exam, diagnosis, or treatment plan.