Passive Verification in Plain English
Passive verification does not mean an order skips the prescription requirement. The seller still needs prescription information and must send a verification request to the prescriber using direct communication, such as phone, fax, or email.
If the request is complete and the prescriber does not respond within the required business-hour window, the prescription may be treated as verified for that order under the rule.
The FTC Contact Lens Rule Concept
The FTC Contact Lens Rule gives contact lens sellers a framework for verifying prescriptions. A seller can use a copy of the prescription provided by the customer, or the seller can contact the prescriber to verify the information.
The rule also describes when a prescription is considered verified, including when a prescriber confirms it, corrects it, or does not respond within the applicable eight business hours after receiving a complete verification request.
Prescriber Contact and Business Hours
The eight-business-hour period is not the same as eight clock hours. It is generally calculated during 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays, in the time zone of the prescriber office. Saturday hours may count only when the seller has appropriate knowledge that the prescriber is regularly open then.
This is why a request sent late Friday, after hours, or before a holiday may not resolve until the next business period.
If the Doctor Responds
A prescriber can confirm that the prescription is accurate. A prescriber can also provide corrected information, or state that the prescription is inaccurate, expired, or otherwise invalid.
If the prescriber disputes the prescription or says it is expired or invalid, the order cannot simply continue as submitted. Honest Lenses may need corrected prescription information or a current prescription before fulfillment.
If the Doctor Does Not Respond
If a complete verification request is received and the prescriber does not respond within the applicable eight business hours, the prescription may be considered verified under the rule. That does not remove the need for accurate prescription information, and it does not override a timely dispute from the prescriber.
FAQ
Is passive verification the same as no prescription?
No. Passive verification still depends on prescription information and prescriber contact. It is one verification pathway under the FTC Contact Lens Rule, not a way to buy contact lenses without a valid prescription.
Does passive verification always take eight hours?
No. The FTC rule uses eight business hours, which is different from eight clock hours. Weekends, federal holidays, after-hours requests, and incomplete information can affect timing.
What happens if my doctor disputes the prescription?
If the prescriber timely states that the prescription is inaccurate, expired, or invalid, Honest Lenses cannot fill the order as submitted. You may need corrected information or a current prescription.
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.