{"id":4746,"date":"2025-02-07T08:19:38","date_gmt":"2025-02-07T08:19:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/?p=4746"},"modified":"2026-06-18T11:18:49","modified_gmt":"2026-06-18T11:18:49","slug":"can-i-order-contact-lenses-with-an-expired-prescription","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/can-i-order-contact-lenses-with-an-expired-prescription\/","title":{"rendered":"Can I Order Contact Lenses With an Expired Prescription?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Updated \u2013 June 18th, 2026<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Picture this: you\u2019re down to your last pair of contacts, so you go online to reorder. Your cart is ready, you go to checkout, and then\u2026 your order doesn\u2019t go through because your prescription is expired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Annoying, right? You know your vision hasn\u2019t changed (or so you think), so why does a piece of paper stand between you and fresh lenses?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just like food, medicine, and even sunscreen, contact lens prescriptions expire, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re wondering why that happens and whether you can still use your expired prescription to order contacts, you\u2019re not alone. Let\u2019s break it all down and go over your options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ht-block-toc  is-style-outline htoc htoc--position-wide toc-list-style-plain\" data-htoc-state=\"expanded\" data-htoc-scrollspy=\"false\" data-htoc-auto-collapse=\"true\" data-htoc-mapping-headers=\"[false,true,true,true,true,true]\"><span class=\"htoc__title\"><span class=\"ht_toc_title\">Table of Contents<\/span><span class=\"htoc__toggle\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\"><g fill=\"#444\"><path d=\"M15 7H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1z\"><\/path><path d=\"M15 1H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1zM15 13H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1z\"><\/path><\/g><\/svg><\/span><\/span><div class=\"htoc__itemswrap\"><ul class=\"ht_toc_list\"><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-do-contact-lens-prescriptions-expire\">Do contact lens prescriptions expire?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-why-do-contact-lens-prescriptions-expire\">Why do contact lens prescriptions expire?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-can-i-use-an-expired-contact-lens-prescription\">Can I use an expired contact lens prescription?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-dangers-of-an-expired-contact-lens-prescription\">Dangers of an expired contact lens prescription<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-renew-your-prescription-with-an-online-vision-test\">Renew your prescription with an online vision test<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-contact-lens-prescription-expiration-by-state\">Contact lens prescription expiration by state<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-how-to-order-contacts-with-an-expired-prescription\">How to order contacts with an expired prescription<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-order-contact-lenses-online-at-1-800-get-lens\">Order Contact Lenses Online at 1-800-GET-LENS<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-do-contact-lens-prescriptions-expire\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do contact lens prescriptions expire?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, the long and short of it is contact lens prescriptions expire. You can\u2019t use the same one forever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most prescriptions are valid for one to two years, depending on state laws and your eye doctor\u2019s recommendations. The expiration date is usually printed on your prescription, so you\u2019ll know exactly when it\u2019s time for a renewal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-why-do-contact-lens-prescriptions-expire\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do contact lens prescriptions expire?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now you know contact lens prescriptions expire, but why is that? Here are a few reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"htoc-eye-health-changes-over-time-even-if-your-vision-feels-the-same-your-eyes-may-develop-dryness-irritation-or-other-issues-that-require-a-different-lens-type\"><strong>Eye health changes over time<\/strong> \u2013 Even if your vision feels the same, your eyes may develop dryness, irritation, or other issues that require a different lens type.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"htoc-your-prescription-needs-adjustments-a-small-change-in-your-prescription-can-make-a-big-difference-in-comfort-and-clarity\"><strong>Your prescription needs adjustments<\/strong> \u2013 A small change in your prescription can make a big difference in comfort and clarity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"htoc-it-s-a-legal-requirement-the-fda-and-state-laws-regulate-contact-lens-prescriptions-to-keep-them-accurate-and-safe-for-wearers\"><strong>It\u2019s a legal requirement<\/strong> \u2013 The FDA and state laws regulate contact lens prescriptions to keep them accurate and safe for wearers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your eye doctor will let you know when your prescription expires and when you\u2019ll need an exam to get a new one. If you\u2019re unsure, just check your prescription or call your doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-can-i-use-an-expired-contact-lens-prescription\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I use an expired contact lens prescription?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re wondering, \u201cCan I order <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/\" title=\"contact lenses\">contact lenses<\/a> online with an expired prescription?\u201d, the short answer is no.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the U.S., both online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores are legally required to verify your prescription before selling you contacts. If it\u2019s expired, they can\u2019t process your order. It\u2019s as simple as that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And while it might seem like just a technicality, this rule is in place to protect you. Wearing the wrong prescription\u2014or lenses that aren\u2019t suited for your current eye condition or vision needs\u2014can lead to discomfort, strain, or even infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your prescription has expired, the best thing to do is schedule an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/vision-test\/\" title=\"eye exam\">eye exam<\/a>. Many doctors offer quick appointments, and once you have an updated prescription, you can reorder your lenses without any issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-dangers-of-an-expired-contact-lens-prescription\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dangers of an expired contact lens prescription<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-medium\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Simple-Ways-to-Relieve-Headaches-Behind-the-Eyes-300x200.png\" alt=\"woman-massaging-her-eyes\" class=\"wp-image-4234\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Simple-Ways-to-Relieve-Headaches-Behind-the-Eyes-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Simple-Ways-to-Relieve-Headaches-Behind-the-Eyes-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Simple-Ways-to-Relieve-Headaches-Behind-the-Eyes-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Simple-Ways-to-Relieve-Headaches-Behind-the-Eyes.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But wait, you say. Plenty of shelf-stable foods like canned goods are still safe well past their expiration dates. So why not contact lens prescriptions?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We hear you, but it\u2019s not worth the risk. Don\u2019t just take our word for it. Below are some well-documented dangers of using an expired contact lens prescription.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"htoc-increased-dryness-or-irritation-old-prescriptions-don-t-account-for-changes-in-your-eye-health-which-can-lead-to-discomfort-if-your-lenses-are-no-longer-the-best-match\"><strong>Increased dryness or irritation<\/strong> \u2013 Old prescriptions don\u2019t account for changes in your eye health.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"htoc-higher-risk-of-eye-infections-wearing-old-lenses-without-proper-checkups-can-increase-the-risk-of-infections-especially-if-your-eye-health-has-changed\"><strong>Higher risk of eye infections<\/strong> \u2013 Wearing old lenses without proper checkups can increase the risk of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/eye-infections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">infections<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"htoc-unnoticed-eye-conditions-a-routine-exam-doesn-t-just-update-your-prescription-it-helps-detect-early-signs-of-eye-diseases-that-could-impact-your-vision-long-term\"><strong>Unnoticed eye conditions<\/strong> \u2013 A routine exam doesn\u2019t just update your prescription. It helps detect early signs of eye diseases that could impact your vision long-term.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-renew-your-prescription-with-an-online-vision-test\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Renew your prescription with an online vision test<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Need a fast and convenient way to renew your prescription?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1-800-GET-LENS offers an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/vision-test\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online vision test and eye exam<\/a> that takes just 10 minutes. All you\u2019ll need is your contact lenses, your computer, a smartphone, and about 10 feet of space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If everything checks out, a board-certified ophthalmologist will review your test results and renew your prescription.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s an easy, hassle-free way to get back to ordering your contacts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-contact-lens-prescription-expiration-by-state\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contact lens prescription expiration by state<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, when does a contact lens prescription expire exactly? The answer depends on where you live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the U.S., contact lens prescription expiration laws vary by state, but most prescriptions are valid for one to two years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires a minimum expiration period of one year unless your eye doctor determines you need a shorter term for medical reasons. Some states extend the validity to two years, though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a breakdown of how long your contact lens prescription is valid based on state laws:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>State<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Minimum Length (Years)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Maximum Length (Years)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Alabama<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Alaska<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Arizona<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Arkansas<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>California<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Colorado<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Connecticut<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Delaware<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>District of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/brands\/columbia\/\" title=\"Columbia\">Columbia<\/a><\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Florida<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Georgia<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hawaii<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Idaho<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Illinois<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Indiana<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Iowa<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kansas<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kentucky<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Louisiana<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Maine<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Maryland<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Massachusetts<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Michigan<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minnesota<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mississippi<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Missouri<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Montana<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nebraska<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nevada<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>New Hampshire<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>New Jersey<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>New Mexico<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>New York<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>North Carolina<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>North Dakota<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ohio<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Oklahoma<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Oregon<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pennsylvania<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rhode Island<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>South Carolina<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>South Dakota<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tennessee<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Texas<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Utah<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vermont<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Virginia<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Washington<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>West Virginia<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Wisconsin<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Wyoming<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: \u201cN\/A\u201d indicates that specific information was not found in the available sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that states may change their laws at any time. If you\u2019re unsure when your prescription expires, check the expiration date printed on it or contact your eye care provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-how-to-order-contacts-with-an-expired-prescription\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to order contacts with an expired prescription<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The truth is you can\u2019t really order contacts with an expired prescription. But what you can do is either schedule an eye exam with your eye care professional or take an online vision test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1-800-GET-LENS offers an online vision exam that takes just 10 minutes, with results reviewed by a board-certified ophthalmologist. If approved, you\u2019ll receive an updated prescription without needing an in-person visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That isn\u2019t to say that you no longer need to see your eye care professional. Getting a routine checkup every year or so is still the best way to make sure your eyes are healthy. It also gives your eye doctor a chance to catch early signs of potential issues before they become bigger, more expensive problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"htoc-order-contact-lenses-online-at-1-800-get-lens\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Order Contact Lenses Online at 1-800-GET-LENS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once your prescription is up to date, ordering contact lenses online is a breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1-800-GET-LENS makes it easy to shop for your favorite brands at competitive prices, all from the comfort of home. With a wide selection of lenses, fast shipping, and an online vision test for quick prescription renewals, 1-800-GET-LENS is the go-to choice for contact lens wearers. From <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/order-daily-contact-lenses-online\/\">daily contact lenses<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/order-monthly-contact-lenses\/\">monthly contact lenses<\/a> to specialty options like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/contact-lenses-for-astigmatism\/\">contact lenses for astigmatism<\/a>, there&#8217;s a fit for every prescription and lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t let an expired prescription hold you back. Get your eyes checked, update your prescription, and order your contacts today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Just like food, medicine, and even sunscreen, contact lens prescriptions expire, too.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":4747,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[309,307,308,306],"semantictags":[],"class_list":["post-4746","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips-and-advice","tag-can-i-order-contact-lenses-with-an-expired-prescription","tag-contact-lens-prescription","tag-expired-contact-lens-prescription","tag-expired-prescription"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4746","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4746"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4746\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6171,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4746\/revisions\/6171"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4747"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4746"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4746"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4746"},{"taxonomy":"semantictags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/semantictags?post=4746"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}