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Original poster

How to stand up to the optician and walk away with only a copy of my prescription?

90 replies

ineedareasonto · 18/05/2026 10:00

Off for an eye test this morning because I’m getting headaches at work when looking at my computer for long stretches. I do not want to purchase glasses there because they’re extortionate and I’m probably going to get them online. How do I make sure I get a copy of my prescription? Posting here for traffic

OP posts:
Needmorelego · 18/05/2026 10:10

ineedareasonto · 18/05/2026 10:07

I’ll be buying them online from a cheaper shop as I can’t afford the £250 specsavers always seem to try and charge me

Show quote history

My last glasses from Specsavers were about £30 🤷

ScotchBonnet74 · 18/05/2026 10:10

Legally they have to give you a copy of the prescription. I always say I will be returning at a later date with a friend to help me choose.

ghostofchristmaspasta · 18/05/2026 10:08

My optician actually suggested that I could get them online, obviously in hushed tones, but he was clearly more than happy to give me the prescription knowing I was going to buy online.

Original poster
ineedareasonto · 18/05/2026 10:07

OldieButBaddie · 18/05/2026 10:06

Why not have the eye test at the place you want to buy the glasses!
Easier all round

I’ll be buying them online from a cheaper shop as I can’t afford the £250 specsavers always seem to try and charge me

OP posts:
Original poster
ineedareasonto · 18/05/2026 10:06

msbevvy · 18/05/2026 10:04

When I bought glasses online they wanted to know my pupil distance. This wasn't on my prescription. I had to go back to the opticians for it and they very grudgingly Told me it.

I think firmoo have a printable ruler on their website to get this! I’ve done that before

OP posts:
OldieButBaddie · 18/05/2026 10:06

Why not have the eye test at the place you want to buy the glasses!
Easier all round

HoraceCope · 18/05/2026 10:05

ime they just give them to you anyway
no issues at all

msbevvy · 18/05/2026 10:04

When I bought glasses online they wanted to know my pupil distance. This wasn't on my prescription. I had to go back to the opticians for it and they very grudgingly Told me it.

Gardenpleasure · 18/05/2026 10:04

As far as I'm aware they have to give you a copy of the prescription. You shouldn't need to ask.
I go to an independent opticians but I always take the prescription to Specsavers.

didntlikeanyofthesuggestions · 18/05/2026 10:02

Just say you need DH to make any decisions, then giggle loudly and leave

Noshadelamp · 18/05/2026 10:02

Just ask for the prescription. You don't need to explain or make an excuse.
If pushed, say you don't have time today to choose frames but you'll take the prescription please and thank you.

Original poster
ineedareasonto · 18/05/2026 10:01

KeyLimeCake · 18/05/2026 10:01

I always say "I don't have time to look at glasses now but I'll be back".

I never go back.

Oh this is a good shout!

OP posts:
KeyLimeCake · 18/05/2026 10:01

I always say "I don't have time to look at glasses now but I'll be back".

I never go back.

Faythe · 18/05/2026 10:01

You take the copy of the prescription they give you, pay for your eye test, say thank you and leave.

Whataflippincircus · 18/05/2026 10:00

Just ask.