You rely on your glasses or contacts to navigate your world every day, but have you considered the expiration date on your prescription? Like many things related to your health, an eye prescription has a limited lifespan. Understanding this validity period is an important part of maintaining clear vision and is a key reason for the importance of annual eye exams.
This timeline protects your vision and your overall wellness. Most eye prescriptions are valid for 1–2 years, though the exact duration depends on your individual eye health and state law. Regular visits for a comprehensive eye exam help keep your prescription accurate and effective for your needs.
Why Your Eye Prescription Has an Expiration Date
Prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses expire for a couple of key reasons, both centered on maintaining your vision and health.
Keep Your Vision Sharp and Clear
Your eyesight can change gradually over time, sometimes without you even noticing. An expired prescription may no longer provide the clear vision you need for daily activities like driving or reading. Using an outdated prescription can lead to symptoms of digital eye strain and headaches.
Protect Your Overall Eye Health
A comprehensive eye exam does much more than just check your vision. It’s an important health screening that allows your optometrist to look for early signs of eye conditions that may not have obvious symptoms. In fact, eye exams can help detect over 270 different health conditions, from diabetes to high blood pressure.
The Difference Between Glasses and Contact Lens Prescriptions
You cannot use your glasses prescription to purchase contact lenses, or the other way around. They are 2 different prescriptions because the lenses function differently. Each requires specific measurements based on its position relative to your eye.
Glasses Prescriptions
A glasses prescription includes the measurements for lenses that sit a short distance away from your eyes. The expiration date for glasses can vary by state, but it is typically between 1 and 2 years. Your eye doctor determines the exact validity based on your visual needs and the results of your eye exam.
Contact Lens Prescriptions
Contact lenses are considered medical devices by the FDA because they sit directly on the surface of your eyes. Federal law requires contact lens prescriptions to be valid for at least one year. A proper contact lens fitting provides the correct fit so your lenses are comfortable. Your eye doctor may set a shorter expiration date for a specific medical reason to monitor your eye health closely.
How Long Your Prescription Lasts by State
The validity period for an eyeglass prescription often depends on your state’s regulations. As an eye doctor in Pennsylvania, we know it’s helpful to understand what to expect. Pennsylvania law, for example, sets a 2-year minimum for glasses prescriptions.
States with a 1-Year Minimum
Many states require an eye exam at least every year to renew a glasses prescription. Your eye doctor will always determine the final expiration date based on your unique eye health profile, as recommended by the American Optometric Association.
States with a 2-Year Minimum
In states like Pennsylvania, a glasses prescription is generally valid for up to 2 years. This is a common timeframe that allows for routine monitoring of your vision. Regular visits with your optometrist help you stay on track with your eye health.
States with Unique Timelines
A few states have different rules that fall outside the 1- or 2-year standard. For example, some states have no specific laws, leaving the decision entirely to the eye doctor’s judgment. It’s always best to check the date on your specific prescription.
Signs You Need a New Prescription
Sometimes your eyes will tell you it’s time for an update before your prescription’s expiration date. If you or a family member notices any changes in vision, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam. Don’t wait for the date on the calendar if you’re experiencing discomfort.
Common Symptoms of an Outdated Prescription
Pay attention to any new or worsening symptoms that suggest your vision has changed. Common indicators can include:
- Blurry vision at any distance
- Frequent headaches, especially after reading or screen time
- Eye strain or a feeling of tired eyes
- Squinting to see objects clearly
- Seeing double images
What to Do When Your Prescription Expires
If your prescription is expired or you think it’s no longer accurate, the next step is simple. You cannot legally purchase new glasses or contact lenses with an expired prescription. This regulation is in place to protect your eyes.
How to Check Your Prescription’s Expiration Date
Your eye doctor is required to provide you with a copy of your prescription after your exam. The expiration date should be clearly printed on it. If you can’t find your copy, you can simply call your optometrist’s office to ask for the date.
Schedule Your Next Eye Exam
The best course of action is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist. This keeps your prescription current while giving you a chance to review your overall eye health. A routine visit is a simple way to prioritize your family’s health and clear sight.
Trusted Eye Care for Your Family
At McCauley Celin Eyecare Associates, we strive to be your partners in eye health and vision care. Our team provides detailed eye exams to help your entire family see clearly and comfortably. We look forward to building a relationship with you and your loved ones.
Book an appointment with us today and begin your vision care journey.
