There are an estimated 45 million contact lens wearers in the United States of America. Contact lenses are the most effective way to correct eyesight problems - no wonder they are so popular.

As the usage of contact lenses continues to grow in the States, poor contact lens practices may lead to several accidents. If you are wondering about buying contact lenses without a prescription, here is everything you might need to know to make the best decision. 

What are the rules for selling and purchasing contact lenses?

The Federal Trade Commission has set specific laws for contact lens prescribers and users. Your prescriber must give you a copy of your prescription just after the contact lens fitting process. Also, they must correct any inaccuracies in the prescription while verifying it for you. 

Some rules for contact lens sellers require them to abstain from selling contact lenses without a prescription in the USA. If verification is required, the seller can contact the prescribing doctor in order to verify the prescription. 

Where can I buy contact lenses without a prescription? 

"I don't have a valid prescription for contact lenses, but I want to buy them." Well! You don't need a prescription to get a fantastic, quality pair of contact lenses.

Although the Contact Lens Act abstains the retailers from selling contact lenses without permission, it is still possible to do that, and that too, legally. There are several websites and brands operating outside the US - like Vision Direct, which consider the convenience of their customers their top priority. Not only do they have all the contact lenses your eye doctor prescribes, they are also available with fast delivery and up to 45% cheaper.

Since these brands are not based in the United States, they are not entirely bound to the rules and regulations set by the Federal Trade Commission. Purchasing your contact lenses in the absence or presence of a valid prescription is possible and legal under European law.

What does a legal prescription specify?

A proper prescription, including all the details regarding the condition of your eyes, is helpful for your contact lens retailer to provide you with the perfect pair of contact lenses suitable for your eyes. These are some details that a contact lens prescription must include:

  • Patient's name

  • Examination date

  • Issue date of the prescription

  • The expiry date of the prescription

  • Name, address, fax number and phone number of prescriber

  • Power

  • Material to be used

  • Base curve of the contact lenses

  • The diameter of the prescribed contact lens

What does the law state?

The Federal Trade Commission of the United States issued the Fairness to contact lens consumers act in 2004 and released the amended act in 2020. The act commands the contact lens retailer to refrain from helping people with a set of contact lenses in the absence of a valid prescription. A valid prescription is the one that is verified by a licensed ophthalmologist and Optometrist. 

The rule also sets a duration for the expiration of prescriptions. The state instructs to put a period of one year for expiration unless there are some medical reasons for setting a shorter expiration date.