Eye Society

1-800 Contacts Online Prescription

Dec 17, 2024

Let’s face it; your to-do list is already as long as a drugstore receipt, so squeezing in an eye exam might feel like mission impossible. But what if you could check your vision from your couch (yes, in your pizza-stained sweatpants)? That’s the beauty of getting a vision test online.

These digital checkups are quick, convenient, and just about perfect for renewing contact lens prescriptions without leaving the house. But don’t toss your eye care professional’s number just yet. These tests aren’t a complete replacement for comprehensive eye exams. Let’s dive into what makes online vision tests tick and why they’re so helpful.

Is a vision test the same as an eye exam?

It might surprise you, but: nope, not even close (like the difference between cooking and just heating up leftovers). A vision test evaluates how well you see and helps renew prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. It’s a streamlined, DIY-friendly process that skips the deeper dive into eye health. An eye exam, on the other hand, is performed by a vision care provider and includes checking for medical conditions (like glaucoma, cataracts, and other words that sound like spells from Harry Potter).

While both types of tests have their place, think of a vision test as the quick touch-up and an eye exam as the full spa day for your peepers.

How it works

So, how does our online vision test actually work? It’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and far less frustrating). Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Answer a few questions. Before testing your vision, you’ll answer some quick questions about your eye health and prescription history (don’t worry, no one’s judging your last eye exam date).

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Set up your device. You’ll need a computer or smartphone to complete the test. Follow the instructions to make sure your screen is at the right brightness and distance (no, this isn’t the time to multitask Netflix).

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Follow on-screen prompts. The test usually involves reading letters or numbers on your screen, similar to the traditional eye chart (cue the classic “E” on top).

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Submit your results. Once you’ve aced the test, your results are sent to a licensed eye doctor for review. They’ll either renew your prescription or recommend an in-person visit if needed.

Get your prescription. Ta-da! Your new prescription will arrive via email, and you’re ready to order your contacts.

Take an exam

What you’ll need

Gather these essentials before you start (because no one likes a mid-test scavenger hunt):

Your current contact lens prescription. If available, this helps ensure accuracy.

A reliable internet connection. Buffering mid-test? That’s a hard pass.

A smartphone or computer. The test requires a device with a screen and camera.

Good lighting. Make sure your room is well-lit to avoid squinting (your eyes will thank you).

Patience. Okay, it’s not rocket science, but a little focus goes a long way.

What does a vision screening include?

A vision screening is all about the basics. It’s like the appetizer to the eye exam’s main course. Here’s what you can expect:

Checking your visual acuity (aka how well you see at different distances)

Evaluating your ability to focus

Assessing your current prescription for glasses or contacts

That’s it ... quick, painless, and no dilated pupils in sight (pun very much intended).

How accurate is it?

Perfectly. In independent clinical trials our vision exam was as accurate as a traditional refractive exam performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist using a phoropter. All prescriptions have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

How is this different than a regular vision exam?

ExpressExam serves the purpose of renewing contact lens prescriptions. It is not a comprehensive eye exam. If you have concerns about your eye health, see your doctor for a full eye exam. If you just need to renew or update your contact lens prescription, try ExpressExam.

Can I get a contact lens prescription online?

Yes, you can! Online vision tests are a handy way to renew your contact lens prescription without a trip to the eye care professional. Companies like us, 1-800 Contacts, make the process seamless with our ExpressExam, but there are other options too. Just remember, these tests are best for renewals and not for first-time prescriptions or addressing new vision concerns. When in doubt, consult your eye care professional (and say "hi" from us while you're at it). Don't forget your money-saving online coupons.

Vision test vs. eye exam

Vision test: This is your quick-check solution for renewing a prescription. It evaluates your visual acuity and ensures your prescription is up to date.

Assesses your current prescription

Tests how well you see at various distances

Takes just a few minutes to complete online

Eye exam: Think of this as the deluxe package. It’s performed by an eye care professional and dives deeper into your overall eye health.

Checks for medical conditions like glaucoma and cataracts

Evaluates your eye pressure and retinal health

Updates your prescription (if needed)

Time to get a vision test online

No matter what you're up to or how long you've been putting off getting your eyes checked, it's almost certainly the right time to have it done. Getting a vision test online is fast, easy, and affordable (i.e., free). Sign up today, and reach out to find eye doctors in your area if the results make you think someone should take a look at your eyes (see what we did there?) 

FAQ

Who can take an online vision test?

Adults aged 18-55 with a stable prescription are the best candidates. If you’ve had recent vision changes or medical conditions, see an eye care professional in person.