AI-assisted source summary. Read the scope and exceptions, then follow the original documents below.
Applies to
United States · eyeglass prescriptions after refraction
Time context
FTC guidance checked October 20, 2026
Sources checked
This concerns US eyeglass prescriptions. It does not make the exam free or replace appropriate fitting and clinical advice.
The prescription belongs in your hands
FTC guidance says prescribers must automatically provide the eyeglass prescription after a refractive exam and before offering to sell glasses. They cannot charge an extra prescription-release fee or condition the exam on buying eyewear.
The FTC explains that only some states require pupillary distance on the prescription. Do not assume the federal rule guarantees every fitting measurement. Ask what information is included and whether a separate measurement service is needed.
Keep the prescription and compare written quotes for the same lens specification and services. If a US prescriber refuses to release it, retain the correspondence and use the FTC's complaint guidance. A cheaper quote still needs to meet your prescription and fitting requirements.
Original documents used for this summary. Multiple links from one publisher are not independent corroboration. Policies can change after the check date.
AI-assisted research, writing and translation by No Secrets, using the linked public documents. This is a source summary, not firsthand reporting or an independently audited investigation. No affiliate links are used in this article.
The date above records this research pass, not the date of every underlying event. The English and Chinese versions are AI-assisted summaries; the linked original controls if they differ.