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Reviewed by Chris Day (Optician) and Dr. Justin Asgarpour (Optometrist).
Looking for an easy explanation on how to read your glasses or contact lens prescription? You’re in the right place.
We’ll help you understand what your eye care professional means by all those numbers and letters on your prescription, so you can enter these details with confidence when you shop for eyewear online.
There’s one key thing to remember about glasses and contact lens prescriptions: the measurements are different.
A glasses prescription is intended for the purchase of glasses only – it does not include information that is required in a contact lens prescription. If you wear contacts, you’ll need a prescription specifically for contacts. (More on that later)
Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to read glasses and contact lens prescriptions before shopping for eyewear.
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens prescriptions: FAQ
Let’s start with some of our most frequently asked questions about glasses and contact lens prescriptions. Follow our guide to find the answers on how to read glasses prescriptions:
- What do the numbers on my prescription mean?
- How do I read my glasses prescription?
- What is the difference between progressive, bifocal and single vision glasses?
- How do I read contact lens prescription?
- What are the key differences between a glasses and contact lens prescription?
The following tips will help you decipher and understand your eyewear prescriptions. If you get stuck, get in touch with our Customer Service team. We’ll be happy to contact your Eye Care Provider to verify your prescription for you.
What do the numbers on my prescription mean?
Your prescription may include the following: SPH, CYL, Axis, ADD and Pupillary Distance (PD). 
The first four parameters have to do with your visual correction. PD is a crucial measurement we need to make your glasses.
Here’s the meaning behind each of these letters and numbers on your glasses prescription:
1. OD “oculus dexter” indicates your right eye’s parameters.
2. OS “oculus sinister” shows your left eye’s parameters.
3. SPH “sphere” indicates the amount of lens power prescribed for nearsighted or farsighted vision. It is measured in diopter and uses (+) for farsightedness (hyperopia) and (-) for nearsightedness (myopia).
4. CYL & AXIS: a Cylinder (CYL) and Axis number (between 0 and 180 degrees) are required to correct Astigmatism. Both parameters will be required together.
5. ADD: provides magnifying power for reading, bifocal, multifocal and progressive lenses. You will most likely have the same number for both eyes that usually ranges between +0.75 and +3.00. Occasionally, lower add powers than +0.75 can be found on a prescription. These are for Anti-Fatigue lenses such as our SightRelax lenses.
There is a separate prescription for your right eye and your left eye. Most of the time, OD and OS are indicated on the left of your prescription and the following numbers show each eye’s specific needs. Some glasses prescriptions also include additional numbers such as:
6. Prism: measured in prismatic diopter (p.d.). It is required when eye alignment needs assistance. It is indicated as follows:
-
- BO (base out)
- BU (base up)
- BI (base in)
- BD (Base-down)
Each one of these indicators provide information about the base direction or the thickest edge of the prism. Clearly does not offer prism prescription glasses.
In addition to the general parameters, eyeglass prescriptions can require a Pupillary Distance (PD). Your PD is the distance between the centre of one pupil (the central black dot of your eye) to the centre of the other pupil. It is measured in millimetres and is an important part of your prescription.
PD indicates where the optical centre of your lenses should be placed, so you can have the best, most comfortable vision. It is generally mentioned in your eyeglasses’ prescription with the letters ‘PD’. If you can’t see it, you can learn how to measure your pupillary distance.
How do I read my glasses prescription?
Once you understand the sections of your glasses prescription, you’ll be able to figure out what all those numbers mean.
If you see a – , it indicates nearsightedness. If you see a +, it indicated farsightedness. If you notice an ‘Add’ power, it means you require magnifying lenses, such as progressives.
When you’re buying glasses online, all you need to do is make sure the numbers on your prescription match the numbers in the prescription field on your screen.
In the sample below, the right eye is prescribed -2.50 sphere to correct nearsighted vision. This eye needs a cylinder of -0.75 and an axis of 173 to correct astigmatism, and an ADD power of +2.25 to correct near vision. The ADD value is usually present in a multifocal prescription.
The left eye is prescribed with a sphere of -3.00 to correct nearsighted. This eye needs a cylinder of -1.00 and 004 to correct astigmatism, and an ADD power of +2.25 to correct near vision. Without the ADD value, it is a single vision prescription.
This is the correct way to include the numbers on our website for glasses:
What is the difference between progressive, bifocal and single vision glasses?
The differences between each type of glasses are not always clear. To understand how to correctly read a prescriptions for glasses, here is an overview of the main categories of lenses that can be written on your prescription.
1. Single vision lenses: a large majority of glasses come with single vision correction. This common type of lens is generally used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or used as reading glasses.
2. Bifocal lenses: these glasses come with two vision corrections. One is on the lower part of the lens to help you read or see from near, and the other on the upper part includes a distance prescription.
3. Progressive lenses: multifocal lenses offer multiple corrections in one pair. These prescriptions have a no-line lens and offer intermediate distance vision, which can be adapted for certain specific uses, such as computer work.
Special features on my prescription
You may also find additional information on your glasses prescription such as the suggestion of certain types of lens coating and special comments from your optometrist.
1. Lens designs on a prescription indicate your eyesight requirement, detailing the lens’ design and function (single, progressive, bifocals…). Occasionally, you’ll see a specific brand of progressive or single vision lens written on the prescription itself. This is most often a recommendation based on a brand the doctor’s office carries. If you have questions about anything on your prescription, feel free to give a call to our customer service team.
2. Vision enhancement: a special treatment for one or both lenses used to improve vision and clarity through your glasses. You could find different options such as:
a. Anti-reflective coating: enhances clarity and concentration by allowing more light to come in and reduces reflection.
b. UV protection: to prevent your eyes from being damaged by the sun’s UVs, your lenses can come with special anti-UV treatment.
c. Transitions: these lenses are equipped with a technology that adjusts your glasses’ tint according to the light. When the sun comes up, your glasses turn into sunglasses!
d. Polarized: improved glass technology designed to filter and reduce glare. Polarized lenses offer more clarity and a sharper vision to their wearers.
e. Clip-on glasses: additional lenses that can be adjusted on top of your prescription glasses. They can be polarized and come in various formats..
f. Blue light filtering glasses: a special coating that filters out UV and blue-violet light emitted from the sunlight and artificial light sources, which can be worn as your regular glasses for all your routine activities, indoors and outdoors. Clearly’s blue light glasses are also scratch-resistant and anti-glare to offer you clear and sharp vision.
How do I read my contact lens prescription?
Remember: glasses and contact lens prescriptions are different.
If you want to purchase contact lenses, you’ll need a specific prescription from your eye care professional. In addition to the general parameters that we’ve mentioned, a contact lens prescription will include a Base Curve and a Diameter.
The differences: Base curve (BC) and diameter (DIA)
If you’re not sure whether you have an eyeglass or contact lens prescription, verify whether your prescription includes:
1. Base Curve (BC): the number that indicates your contact lens’ shape. According to the steepness or flatness of your cornea, your prescription indicates how large your contact lens should be.
2. Diameter (DIA): a number indicating your contacts’ length to make sure they’ll cover your cornea properly.
3. Brand: your eye doctor will determine the appropriate brand and type of contact lenses for you, according to your preferences and specific requirements.
4. Expiration date: your eye care professional will determine an expiry date for your prescription. Past that date, you’ll require a new prescription for contact lenses. These are generally set annually.
5. Corrective power: these are the numbers associated with the actual power needed in your lenses. These numbers often change (or disappear) between your glasses prescription and your contact lens prescription, especially with higher powers.
If you find the information displayed above on your prescription, you have a contact lens prescription.
Both the Base Curve (BC) and Diameter (DIA) of a contact lens ensures a proper fit on your cornea and total eye surface. Those features ensure comfort and encourage eye health, including allowing proper oxygen to the eye. You’ll also need this information if you want to order contact lenses online.
Do you have a valid eye prescription and are ready to shop?
Now that you understand how your eye prescription works, you can learn how to buy glasses online at Clearly.
Pick a pair of frames online and enter your prescription details. You’ll soon be rocking a pair of glasses that look great and make everything around you look great as well. Click to browse our collection of stylish and affordable glasses.
Fancy getting contact lens delivered straight to your door? Click to check out our wide selection of contact lenses.
Have more questions? We have various other ways to help you read your eye prescription. Contact us by email, live chat or phone.
Read more:
- How to buy your first reading glasses online?
- What are the best frames for progressive lenses?
- What are the best blue light filtering glasses?
See you on social!
Lionel
Hi,
I tried to enter my prescription since my camera on my phone isn’t working but this site won’t allow me to enter my “add” but will for “pd” even though I have a blank for that latter part on my prescription. Any help would be great.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Lionel,
We recommend reaching out directly to our dedicated Customer Service Team for assistance with your prescription.
You can reach them by phone at 1-866-414-2326 or via email or chat at this address:
https://www.clearly.ca/help#contact-and-hours
Thanks, and we hope we can help you straighten this out soon!
— Sarah
Marion
Where are the acuvue contact lense made, in what country?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Marion,
We receive our lenses directly from the manufacturer (Acuvue), and we’re only a refill company, not the manufacturers ourselves.
We recommend speaking directly with Acuvue’s customer service for any inquiries on their processes:
https://www.acuvue.ca
We’re sorry we couldn’t be more help at this stage, but let us know if you have any other questions.
Thanks,
Sarah
KAI
Hi,
in my prescription, the AX are : 6 and 1, but for the Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism, I had only minimum 10 could choose, should I choose 10? or is there any other option you recommend me?
Here is my full prescription:
SPH CYL AX
AVE -2.75 -1.75 6
SPH CYL AX
AVE -3.00 -1.75 1
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Kai,
We recommend reaching out directly to our dedicated Customer Service Team for assistance with your prescription.
You can reach them by phone at 1-866-414-2326 or via email or chat at this address:
https://www.clearly.ca/help#contact-and-hours
We’re sorry we couldn’t be of more help at this time, but we hope that you do find the answers you need.
Thanks,
Sarah
Randall Mileski
Sarah,
I have enjoyed your service and am looking into it for my girlfriend. Unlike my simple Rx, hers is for progressives and has more numbers than I’m used to, even more than an ADD number. It’s recorded as:
OD – SPH=pl CYL=sphere AXIS=blank PRISM=blank BASE=blank ADD=+1.25
OS – SPH=pl CYL=-0.50 AXIS=150 PRISM=blank BASE=blank ADD=+1.25
Additional Requirements: “progressives or SV NEAR OD: +1.00 sphere OS:+1.00 -0.50 x150”
I can measure her PD with a caliper as I did for myself but not sure how the “Additional Requirements” affect what I should enter? Is this redundant to the ADD parameter or does it need to be taken into account elsewhere?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Randall,
We recommend reaching out directly to our dedicated Customer Service Team for assistance with your prescription.
You can reach them by phone at 1-866-414-2326 or via email or chat at this address:
https://www.clearly.ca/help#contact-and-hours
We’re sorry we couldn’t be of more help at this time, but we hope that you do find the answers you need.
Thanks,
Sarah
Chandra
Hi, this is my prescription for glasses
OD -1.75 DS (Plastic CR39)
OS -2.00 DS
not sure what they stand for and how will i go about filling my prescription on your site?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Chanda,
Typically DS stands for “dioptic sphere,” which in many cases means you can set the CYL and Axis at 0.00.
That said, we recommend reaching out directly to our dedicated Customer Service Team for assistance with your prescription.
You can reach them by phone at 1-866-414-2326 or via email or chat at this address:
https://www.clearly.ca/help#contact-and-hours
We’re sorry we couldn’t be of more help at this time, but we hope that you do find the answers you need.
Thanks,
Sarah
Shannon
Hello,
I have a prism in my glasses, is this the 1.5BO on my chart? If so? How do I enter this when doing my prescription on the website?
Thanks!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Shannon,
Unfortunately we don’t offer a prism at this time. We can accommodate progressives, but not the prism specifically.
We apologize for the inconvenience.
Let us know if you have any additional questions.
Thanks,
Sarah
Oriana
Hi
Im trying to order Toric contacts but some of the drop down menus dont have the numbers I need. this is what my doctor gave me.
OD: +0.50 Cyl: -1.50 Axis: 005
OS: +0.50 Cyl: -1.50 Axis: 172
I should note, the prescription was for glasses but from what i understand that shouldn’t matter.
Your help is much appreciated. I am a newbie to ordering contacts online.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Oriana,
Unfortunately contact lenses do require their own separate prescription. Often the parameters are slightly different, but also the doctor should have recommended and fitted you for a particular contact lens brand.
We recommend speaking with your eye care professional for a brand recommendation and fitting, just to ensure that your eyes are healthy and well adapted to that particular lens.
We apologise for any inconvenience.
Thanks,
Sarah
Alain
A quick question to hopefully clarify a little bit of confusion on my part.
When ordering multifocals, in my particular case near is +0 (needs no correction) while far is around (OD -2.00 / OS -1.75). Would I enter the add values as (+2.00 and +1.75) respectively?
Thanks much.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Alain,
You should have a prescription which includes the following parameters:
OD: SPH, CYL, Axis, PD ADD
OS: SPH, CYL, Axis, PD ADD
The SPH, CYL and Axis (Sphere, Cylinder, Axis) measurements are for your distance correction, while your ADD power is for your near prescription. The PD is often separated for progressive prescriptions, and can be entered separately or combined into one number, typically between about 55-70 for adults.
If you’re not seeing these separate parameters, we recommend speaking with your eye care professional for a more detailed prescription.
Thanks,
Sarah
Trisha
I was hoping for some help interpreting my Rx. The OD sphere is +2.25, cylinder -0.5 and axis is 110
The OS sphere is +1.25 cylinder is D.S and no axis is not listed.
when I try to order online, there’s only options for – not +
Thanks!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Trisha,
We always recommend clarifying your prescription with your eye doctor, just in case, but DS often stands for “dioptic sphere,” and typically indicates that you don’t need to enter any values (or 0.00) for CYl and Axis.
Are you trying to order glasses or contacts?
Thanks,
Sarah
Wally
Can you add digital protection as well as transitional to the same lens?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Wally,
Unfortunately right now, Transitions and Digital Protection do have to be separate, however that’s also because we usually recommend Digital Protection as an office/indoors-only lens, whereas Transitions are great for going inside & outside throughout the day.
All Transitions lenses will still carry UV protection, but not specifically the full blue light filtration offered by the BlueReflect lenses.
Thanks,
Sarah
Priyanka Verma
I am trying to order coloured contact lenses, which only allows me to edit the ‘power’ field. There is nowhere for me to specify the rest of my information. My prescription for one eye is: -4.00-1.25×170. What should I put as my ‘power’? Thanks!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Priyanka,
Is this a prescription you also use for glasses? If there’s no brand, Diameter (Dia), and/or Base Curve (BC) listed on your prescription, it’s likely for glasses rather than contacts.
Thanks,
Sarah
Bernard
Hello, my optometrist gave me my prescription and they didn’t indicate which number is for what.
Here is exactly how it looks like:
OD -1.75 DS
OS -1.50-0.25 x 024
What does this all mean?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Bernard,
Typically this means that for your right eye, you’d enter:
-1.75 for the SPH/Sphere, and then 0.00 for AXIS and 0.00 for CYL/Cylinder.
For your left eye, you’d enter:
-1.50 for the SPH/Sphere, and then -0.25 for AXIS and 24 for CYL/Cylinder.
Do you have a PD measurement written on your prescription at all?
For more one-on-one assistance, we always recommend calling us directly so we can assist you in real time. You can contact us at 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
Bernard
Okay I had a feeling that those numbers corresponded to the different shapes but I just wanted to confirm. I don’t have the PD measurement written on my prescription but I’m just going to have my family member measure it out for me.
Thanks a lot for your quick and informative answer!
Sarah Arboleda
My pleasure. Do give us a call if you need any further help.
Ray
Trying to order Accuvue Preysobioba contact lens and the form does not allow me to enter the second value fr each lens.
I.e. My right eye is… D -4.00 / Mid
But there is no where for… Max Add + 1.75
Similarly for my left eye… D -4.00 / High… with Max Add + 2.50
Where can I add the Max Add values?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Ray,
Is this the contact lens brand that your eye doctor has recommended?
You can always contact us directly at 1-866-414-2326 for a more immediate response.
Thanks,
Sarah
Brittany
Do you offer prescription glasses for prescription over 6.00? My prescription is 650 and 700.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Brittany,
It often depends on a number on factors, including CYL and Axis measurements, as well as your PD, your frame choice, lens choice, and ADD power.
We recommend calling us directly at 1-866-414-2326 for more information and assistance.
Thanks,
Sarah
Heidi
My prescription from my ophthalmologist doesn’t include a PD. Can I just measure this distance myself or do I need to make another appointment to get this measured?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Heidi,
We always recommend speaking with your eye doctor first to see if that is something they have on file, or if they’re able to measure it for you. Otherwise, we do have a full guide to the PD here on the blog:
https://www.clearly.ca/thelook/measure-pupillary-distance/
For any other questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
Michelle
Do you sale ” cat eyes style ” ? Frame
Michelle
Do you sale ” cat eyes style ” ?
Daniel BRADSHAW
I was wondering why the prescription my progressive glasses I ordered in July is different from the prescription glasses I just ordered tonight? The progressives have an ADD value but the sunglasses do not but the Rx I used for the sunglasses is the same one as the progressives. Is it because the sunglasses really aren’t used for reading? Or was there a data entry error when submitting the order for the sunglasses. Noticed the difference when I got my emailed order receipt.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Daniel,
We’d love to help you resolve this. Please contact us at 1-866-414-2326 so our customer care department can review your full order history and prescription information to get you the full information and answer.
Thanks,
Sarah
Chris Pilling
What does D/N mean on Proclear Multifocal Toric?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Chris,
Typically D stands for “distance” and N stands for “Near.”
Thanks,
Sarah
erophili
Hi, I have a prescription of +6.50 and I do not see an option for this, is this because you do not offer such a high prescription?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Erophili,
Are you ordering glasses or contacts?
Maria
Hi,
I dont´t have a Pupillary Distance.
Is that a problem?
Thank you
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Maria,
Are you ordering glasses or contacts?
Karen
I cannot enter my PD numbers for my prescription as they are too high. It says Far 61 Near 58
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Karen,
This means that 61 is the PD you enter for distance prescriptions and multifocals. You’d use 58 for reading-only glasses.
If you have any other prescription questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
Jonathan
I read through the comments above about the 2 PD numbers, and how to enter them. But when I go to do it it just shows on place to enter the PD number and nothing else to click on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Jonathan
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Jonathan,
After you click “Add lenses” on the page for the frame you’re wanting to buy, you should immediately get the prescription (Rx) page.
Underneath the section to enter your PD, there is a link titled “I have two PD numbers” — just click this to enter your separate figures.
Thanks,
Sarah
Laura
To whom it may concern,
I am interested in purchasing the “1 Day Acuvue Moist for Astigmatism 90 pack” contact lenses, but I am having trouble figuring out what information to put into the “Axis” and “boxes” info boxes.
I was trying to add my right eye axis which is OD: X095, but the only option is 90 or 100. I’m not sure which one to choose
It was the same for my left eye OS, which is OS: X085. The only options I have are 80 and 90. Again, I’m not sure which one to choose.
Also, the “boxes” box. What does that mean? How many boxes do I need? 2 boxes was already preselected, but I just want to make sure I have all of the proper information before I purchase my contact lenses.
Thanks!
Laura
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Laura,
Is this the brand that your eye doctor prescribed? If you don’t see a brand listed, you may instead be working from a glasses prescription, rather than a contact lens prescription.
If you instead see a different brand listed, then we always recommend sticking with the product prescribed by your doctor. If you’re looking to try something new, you can always visit them for an updated script.
If you were prescribed for the 1 Day Acuvue Moist for Astigmatism 90 Pack and you’re not seeing your parameters, then give us a call at 1-866-414-2326 and we’d be happy to help one-on-one.
Thanks,
Sarah
joseph quickl
l like vision glasses . l want to know how much cost for glasses. let me knoe pls
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Joseph,
Our complete glasses packages start at $50 for a pair of frames and our always-free Standard Air Lenses, which accommodate single vision prescriptions from -3 to +3. That said, there are a lot of variables when it comes to finding your perfect pair of glasses — from the frame you like to the lenses you need. We recommend speaking with an eyewear representative if you’d like a price breakdown based on your own set of requirements.
Call us: 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
Dee
My contact lense prescription numbers don’t match the available list of values on your website. How do I pick the best match?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Dee,
Are you ordering the specific brand recommended by your eye care professional? If you are, and you’re not seeing your specific values listed, please give us a call at 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
Farhad
Hi,
There are a couple of numbers missing on my prescription, Is it something you can help or do I need to contact my doctor?
Under CYL for my right eye it says “sph” and under AXIS for the same eye is left empty.
OD: -0.50, sph, (no value for Axis)
OS: -0.50, -0.25, 175
Thank you
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Farhad,
Typically this means to leave the fields for CYL and Axis empty (or at 0), but we alway recommend clarifying with your eye care practitioner if you’re unsure.
Thanks,
Sarah
Krystale
My prescription has an ADD value of +0.75, but this is not one of the options on the menu. I need progressive lenses. What do I do?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Krystale,
Give us a call at 1-866-414-2326 and an eyewear representative should be able to assist you.
Thanks,
Sarah
Steve
How do I enter my Prescription details on the online order through Clearly.ca?
My prescription is as follows and I am looking for Progressive transition lenses
O.D: +050
O.S: +100
Add: +2.00
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Steve,
If you’re looking for help with the ordering process, you can always give us a call at 1-866-414-2326.
You should be able to enter all of those values into our prescription page, but if you’re having trouble then please do give us a call.
Thanks,
Sarah
Brandon
I was going to order contact for the first time. I’m sure my optometrist can give me an answer when I go see them next week, but was looking for a sooner answer.
My prescription for myopia is
Right = +0.00-1.00X098
Left = +0.00-0.75X075
Upon trying to enter it only gave me certain options like 0.80 rather than 0.75 and 100 rather than 98.
Are there any issues with rounding up to the 0.80 instead of 0.75, and 100 instead of 098? I’m assuming this is a common occurance for ordering contacts.
Thank you!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Brandon,
Is there a contact lens brand listed on your prescription? If not, it sounds like you may have a glasses prescription, rather than one for contacts. Unfortunately the parameters do differ between the two, and typically your eye care professional will recommend a specific product and give you a sample before completing your script.
I hope this helped. Please let us know if you have any additional questions or concerns at 1-866-414-2326.
Thanks,
Sarah
melinda
Hi.
I am wanting to order a new brand of contacts. My perscription says BC 8.3 but on the new brand I am wanting to buy it says BC 8.6.
Am I still able to order these contacts or will they not fit properly.
Thank you.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Melinda,
A full contact lens prescription always includes the specific brand that your eye care practitioner recommends for fit and comfort compatibility. If you are wanting to change product, we always suggest going to see your doctor for a refreshed script first.
Thanks,
Sarah
Shannon
I do not require a prescription but would like to order colour contacts.
What information would I input in the OD and OS fields so there isn’t
any corrective power?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Shannon,
Even coloured contacts with no vision correction still require a prescription. The reason is because a contact lens prescription includes a base curve and diameter measurement, which determine how the contact lens will fit onto your eye. If you get the wrong parameters, you can wind up damaging your eye or — at the very least — being extremely uncomfortable.
So we always recommend seeing your eye doctor for a prescription even if you don’t need correction.
Thanks,
Sarah
jeff
Hi, I have #’s for both OD and OS but doctor wrote nothing in my prescription for a PD #. Is that necessary for filling out my online order? Or can I just measure distance myself with a ruler or I have to go back to optometrist to measure that?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Jeff,
We have a second article all about your PD here:
https://www.clearly.ca/thelook/measure-pupillary-distance/
The quick answer is: sometimes your PD is not included but it is definitely needed to complete any order for prescription eyewear. We first recommend calling your eye care practitioner’s office directly to ask if that’s something they can provide for you. If they cannot, you can then try to measure yourself and the blog linked will give you tips on how to do so.
Thanks,
Sarah
Krysta
Hello, I tried to order glasses from you today but I cannot input my ” axis ” because the number that my eye doctor prescribed is a negative number. I called the eye doctor and they confirmed that my axis is a negative number in both eyes how would I go about ordering glasses if the only prescription option for acid is a positive number ?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Krysta,
If you give us a call at 1-866-414-2326, an agent will be able to help you decipher your prescription. Is this for glasses or contact lenses?
Thanks,
Sarah
Camille
Hi i just wanna ask regarding my PD when i check my Glasses prescription it didn’t have the PD. I’m curious how will i know my PD
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Camille,
We have a second article all about your PD here:
https://www.clearly.ca/thelook/measure-pupillary-distance/
The quick answer is: sometimes your PD is not included. We first recommend calling your eye care practitioner’s office directly to ask if that’s something they can provide for you. If they cannot, you can then try to measure yourself and the blog linked will give you tips on how to do so.
Thanks,
Sarah
Annie Heppell
Hello, I want ordering Biofinity toric by coopervision . But I have put my old boxes in trash and now I dont understand my prescription.
SPH CYL AXIS
OD ; -4,75 -1,00 0,88
OS ; -4,75 -1,50 100
So I dont know what cyl. And axis I need to take because they don’t have -1,50cyl. or 0,88 axis.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Annie,
It looks like that might be your glasses prescription. Glasses and contact lens prescriptions are often slightly different — a contact lens prescription would include the brand name and the Diameter measurement.
I would recommend contacting your eye care professional for a copy of your contact lens prescription. Otherwise, please feel free to give us a call at 1-866-414-2326 with any additional questions.
Thanks,
Sarah
kareem
hi I have a question I’m interested in ordering air optix for astigmatism
my OS is -1.50 sphere, -1.50 cyclinder and 072 axis, I don’t see an option for a -1.50 cyclinder would it be typical to go
to -1.75 in this case, I’m not sure what to do any help would be appreciated thanks
-kareem hersi
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Kareem,
Is the prescription that you’re using the same one that you used for your eyeglasses? If so, you’d need to visit your eye doctor for a separate contact lens prescription which would include a brand recommendation and trial lenses.
If you are prescribed for Air Optix for Astigmatism, then your parameters should be available in the brand.
If you need additional assistance, please contact us at 1-866-414-2326.
Best,
Sarah
Margaret Kwan
how can I get Clearly Contacts to add or stretch out the nose padding part so it sits a little higher on my nose bridge? Do I need to leave it with them so they can fix it? or can I wait for them to do it in person?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Margaret,
If you live near one of our three store locations, we can definitely do that for you in-person.
Here is our store contact information:
Vancouver
Robson
West 4th Avenue
Toronto
Queen Street
Otherwise, please feel free to call us any time at 1-866-414-2326, and an agent can assist you further.
Emma
my PD is a smaller number than your options list. What does this mean for me? My prescription also reads to separate PD’s, 32.5 for my right and 31.5 for my left under the PD column. Help! Thanks!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Emma,
This means that you have a mono PD. You can enter in two separate PD measurements into our current prescription reader, but if you need some assistance you can always give us a call and we’ll be happy to walk you through it.
1-866-414-2326
Your “total” PD is a 64, according to the numbers you’ve provided above, with 32.5 for your OD (or right eye) and 31.5 for your OS (or left eye).
The way to enter it is as follows:
1. Find a pair of frames you love, then click the “Add lenses” button right underneath the price on the product’s page.
2. Select “Add Prescription” from the dropdown. This will take you to a new screen.
3. Select “Add New Prescription” on the lefthand side of the new screen.
4. Enter your prescription information. Then, where it says “PD,” you should see text that reads “I have two PD numbers.” Select this.
5. You should now see two fields for your PD — the top is for your right eye (OD), the bottom is for your left eye (OS). You can enter your two separate numbers here.
Hopefully that helped, Emma, but let us know if we can be of any further assistance.
Best,
Sarah
Teghan E
I’m trying to order toric contacts for my right eye and my prescription is -0.75-1.50×145. I can’t seem to find a brand that can match this, only inbetween sizes. I’ve tried -0.75-1.25×140 with biofinity, but it didn’t fit right. Do you have any tips on how to tweak the numbers to line up better?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Teghan,
What brand of contact lenses did your eye care professional prescribe you for? If there’s no contact lens brand listed on your prescription, you may instead have a script for glasses.
For more hands-on support, please contact us at [email protected] or 1-866-414-2326.
Sonnie Martin
I am wanting to order a multi focal lens that has correction for nearsightedness AND farsightedness. But your website does not offer the option to enter those values. How do I order?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Sonnie,
Our multifocal lenses do have both distance and reading correction included. We carry both a bifocal lens (with the visible line), as well as progressive (without the line). When you select your frame, you are taken to a prescription page that asks you to enter all values from your prescription, including your ADD power (which corrects your reading/near vision). Once you’ve filled out your prescription, you’re taken to another page that asks you to choose whether you want Reading, Distance, or Reading & Distance. If you select Reading & Distance, you’re taken to see our selection of multifocal lenses.
If you give us a call at 1-866-414-2326 or email us at [email protected], a dedicated Customer Service Representative can walk you through the order process and help you find the lens you need.
We apologize for any confusion caused.
Best,
Sarah
Sarah
I am trying to get a toric lens for my left eye only (right is regular lens) and I can’t put in the CYL or AXE values. The parameters on the site are already set and do not match my prescription. My prescription has different values.
Help!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Sarah,
Are you trying to order contact lenses or glasses? If contacts, you should be prescribed for two different brands — one toric, one non-toric.
If glasses, there should be CYL and Axis prompts when you go to enter your prescription.
If you’re having trouble, please contact us at [email protected] or 1-866-414-2326.
Stephanie
Hi,
I see that you indicate that under AXIS on your website it allows you to enter the 0s prior to the number, however when I try to enter mine (025) the only option is 25, is this correct? Or am I doing something wrong?
Thanks,
Steph
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Steph,
Is this for contact lenses or glasses?
For axis measurements, the 0 can often be a placeholder by your eye doctor, so 25 should be correct. That said, if you are concerned that you might be misreading your script, we always recommend clarifying it with your eye care professional before ordering.
For any other inquiries about ordering, please contact us at [email protected] or 1-866-414-2326.
Gary Coblenz
There is no mention of Notes on prescriptions. My prescription has a note that says, ” pals +2.25 add ou”. The add on the actual prescription is 2.00. Why the difference?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Gary,
We recommend contacting our dedicated Customer Service Team directly so they can talk you through the prescription in greater detail and answer any questions you might have. You can reach them at [email protected] or at 1-866-414-2326.
Veronica Bergamin
I have a glass eye on my left side, so I need a prescription on the right and balanced on the left but I can’t find a place to put that information. Also when you are ordering bifocals how do you know where to put the line for the reading part.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Veronica,
If you’ve been instructed by your eye doctor to “balance” one eye, then that means you should enter the same information for your left (OS) eye as your right (OD) eye.
So if your prescription is:
OD: -2.00, -0.25, 75
Then your OS would have the same parameters to ensure that the glasses have equal weight and thickness.
For entering your reading information, “ADD” — which comes just after the AXIS section — is the same as “Reading” power. Unless you’ve been otherwise instructed by your eye doctor, your ADD power/Reading power should be the same in both eyes.
I hope that helps. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact us at 1-866-414-2326 or via e-mail at [email protected].
Aaron
Do you guys not offer glasses with a prism in them?
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Aaron,
At this time we don’t offer prism technology in our lenses. We currently carry lined bifocals and unlined progressives.
We may have prism lenses in the future, but we don’t have an exact expectation date at this time.
I am sorry for any inconvenience caused.
If you have any additional questions, please contact us at 1-866-414-2326 or e-mail at [email protected]
Geoff Anderson
Given the growing demand for prisms for people sitting in front of screens all day long, such as the one I’m staring at now, not having an ETA on when they will be available is a neglectful answer. That literally forces us to take out business elsewhere.
Sarah Arboleda
Dear Geoff,
My apologies for any lack of clarity. We take our lens quality and technology very seriously as we want to make sure that everyone has the best possible vision from our eyewear. Certain lenses, like prism lenses, do require highly specialized and individual calculations and measurements which are more challenging through an online retail medium. That said, we are always striving to close the gap between physical and digital shopping, which is why we would not be willing to say that we will never carry this lens.
Thank you for your feedback, and let us know if you have any further questions or concerns at this time.
Thanks,
Sarah
Marilyn
Just a slight error in spelling of section [ buying glaases on line] X
Correction ( buying glasses on line) ✔ in your ” How to read your Prescription for buying eyewear or contact lenses” page.
Small detail I know, but correction is so important in detail…Eye hope you see its importance 😉 pun intended. I luv the website!
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Marilyn,
Thank you so much for taking the time to let us know! It’s been corrected.
Joe
No mention on how to deal with bifocal lens.
Your frames need to specify which are suitable for bifocal and which are not.
Sarah Arboleda
Hi Joe,
Apologies for any confusion. Our site does help to filter the glasses that are suitable for multifocal (bifocal and progressive) lenses.
If you go to the link below, it will show you all the frames currently available on our site that will accommodate this lens type.
https://www.clearly.ca/glasses/progressive-eligible-frames
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team: 1-866-414-2326