Here’s a question I get almost every week:
“I had an eye test at a different optician… can I still use that prescription to order glasses somewhere else?” 🤔
The answer is a resounding YES, and today, I’ll explain exactly how it works, what to watch out for, and why it could save you money, time, and even get you better glasses! 🚀
As an optician with years of experience helping people make smarter eyewear choices, let me assure you: your prescription is yours. You can use it wherever you like, including online stores like Optical Voucher Shop.
Let’s break it all down, nice and easy.
You absolutely have the right to use any valid optical prescription at any optician or online shop, and by doing so, you open up a world of better prices, more choice, and stylish frames you’ll actually love wearing.
Why People Get Confused
Let’s be honest:
The traditional high street optical model hasn’t exactly been transparent about this.
Some places quietly imply (or downright say) that you must buy glasses where you had your eye test.
Not true! 🚫
Think of it like a GP’s prescription from your local Doctor’s Surgery, you’re free to take it to any pharmacy you wish. That’s the same with your glasses prescription.
“I once helped a customer who thought she had to stay loyal to her old optician because, in her words, “they gave me the prescription, so I owe them something.“
After explaining her rights, she ordered from Optical Voucher Shop and got two pairs of stylish glasses for less than the price of one at her old place. Win-win!”
📜 Your Legal Rights Around Prescriptions
Under UK optical law, after an NHS or private eye test:
- You must be given a copy of your prescription, by law.
- You are free to use that prescription anywhere, including online.
You do not have to buy glasses from the same opticians that examined your eyes.
You are able to shop around, and it is advisable to do so.
Optical ecommerce has exploded because people want better deals, better choices, and more freedom.
And Specsoria is proudly part of that new, customer-first movement! 🚀
✅ How to Use Another Optician’s Prescription to buy Eyeglasses Online
At Specsoria, the process is straightforward:
- Get your prescription (ask for it, it’s yours by right).
- Check it’s less than 2 years old (for adults) or 1 year old (for kids).
- Upload it securely when ordering your glasses on our site.
- Choose your frames, lenses, coatings, and extras.
- Complete your order, and look forward to stylish specs delivered straight to your door! 📦
Easy peasy.
💬 Common Questions (and Straightforward Answers)
“What if my optician does not give me my eyeglasses prescription?”
🚨 They legally must. If they don’t, ask politely, and if needed, mention the Opticians Act 1989. The General Optical Council is the Opticians regulatory body that you can make a complaint to, if they persist.
“Will Specsoria need to check my prescription?”
We’ll simply verify that it’s clear, valid, and within date.
If anything looks unclear (like an unreadable number), our friendly team will get in touch, no stress.
“What extra details might you ask for?”
Sometimes we may require your Pupillary Distance (PD). This is the measurement of the distance between your pupils.
If your optician didn’t give it to you, don’t worry, we’ll show you how to measure it at home with a simple ruler! 📏😄
🔥 Why Using Your Prescription Elsewhere Makes Sense
1. More Choice
- High street shops often have limited ranges based on what they want to sell.
- Online? A huge selection, updated regularly, including stylish frames from all over the world.
2. Better Prices
- Without the overheads of a big retail space, online shops like Specsoria can offer top-quality glasses for much less.
3. Convenience
- Browse anytime, anywhere. No need to book another appointment just to get new glasses.
👀 Watch Out for These Common Mistakes
- Using an expired prescription: Always check the date.
- Guessing measurements: If unsure, ask or follow our PD measuring guide.
- Missing important lens details: If you need varifocals or specific coatings, double-check that they’re included on your prescription or contact us for advice.
