Can You Get Glasses Without an Eye Test?

For anyone in a rush, reordering online, or looking to save time, the idea of getting new glasses without having another eye test is tempting. But is it a good idea? And is it even allowed in the UK?

Getting new glasses without an eye test is possible in some cases, but it depends on whether your current prescription is still valid. Understanding the rules around prescription validity, when an update is needed, and what your options are can help you decide your next step.

Already Have a Valid Prescription?

If your prescription is still valid and less than two years old, you're good to go. At Aristone Optical in Fulham, we can help you choose a new pair of glasses and often have them ready the same day. You can browse our range of brands here and visit us in-store get personal advice on the right lenses for your needs.

Can You Get Glasses Without Eye Exams?

Many people wonder, can you get new glasses without an eye exam? The short answer is yes, but only with a valid prescription. If you’re trying to get prescription glasses without an eye exam, the rules are clear: your prescription must be recent and accurate.

In the UK, yes you can get new glasses using an existing prescription. But there’s a catch: the prescription needs to be valid and up to date. If it’s been more than two years since your last test, it’s worth checking in with an optician before ordering.

You cannot legally get prescription glasses without any prescription. It has to be based on a recent eye examination carried out by a qualified optometrist.

How Long Is a Glasses Prescription Valid in the UK?

According to NHS guidelines, most prescriptions are valid for two years. For people over 70 or those with specific eye conditions, this may be shorter.

If you’re unsure when your last test was, your optician should be able to confirm the date. Staying within the valid period means your lenses will be based on accurate, current measurements.

Why It’s Risky to Use an Old Prescription

Vision can change gradually, and old prescriptions may not reflect your current needs. Wearing lenses that no longer suit you can cause:

• Headaches

• Eye strain

• Blurred vision

• Difficulty with daily tasks

  
  

Using an outdated prescription might save time in the short term, but it often leads to discomfort and returns. It also means you could miss early signs of conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration, which are often detected during routine checks.

Are There Exceptions?

Some shoppers specifically search for glasses without eye exam requirements. While that’s possible for non-prescription reading glasses or fashion frames, prescription glasses without an eye exam always require a valid, up-to-date prescription. If yours is still current, you're free to choose new lenses and frames without delay.

Some online retailers may let you upload an old prescription, but they usually won’t (and shouldn’t) process an order if it’s out of date.

What to Do If You’ve Lost Your Prescription

If you’ve had an eye test recently and lost your prescription details, contact the optician who issued it. They’re required to provide you with a copy.

If it’s been a while and you’re unsure whether it’s still valid, a quick check with your optician can clear things up. It’s better to be sure before ordering than risk receiving lenses that aren’t quite right.

How Aristone Optical Can Help

At Aristone Optical in Fulham, we make the process simple. If your prescription is still valid, we’ll help you choose a new pair of frames from our range of glasses brands and get them ready quickly, often on the same day.

If you’re due an update, our eye exams are clear, comfortable, and handled by experienced professionals. We’ll explain your results and help you find lenses that suit your life.

Get Glasses Quickly and Confidently

Whether you’ve got a current prescription or need to check if yours is still valid, we’re here to help. Contact us to book an appointment or ask about same day glasses.

We’re proud to help people across London see clearly - without delays or confusion.