Common English for Eye Test & Buying Glasses in the US

Getting an eye exam and buying prescription glasses in the US is easy — if you know the common English terms used during the process.

Whether you're visiting an optometrist or shopping online with NextPair, here’s a helpful guide to key English words and sample conversations you’ll likely encounter.

Step 1 — Making an Appointment for an Eye Test

Common English Questions You’ll Hear:

• "When was your last eye exam?"

• "Do you have vision insurance?"

• "Are you experiencing any vision problems?"

What You Can Say:

• "I’d like to schedule an eye exam."

• "It’s been over a year since my last exam."

• "I don’t have insurance. How much is the exam?"

Step 2 — During the Eye Test

What the Doctor Might Say:

• "Read the smallest line you can see."

• "Is it clearer with 1... or 2?" (Lens test)

• "Your prescription has changed."

• "You have astigmatism."

• "Your PD is..." (Pupillary Distance)

Useful Words:

What You Can Ask:

• "Can I have a copy of my prescription for glasses?"

• "Can you include my PD measurement?"

Step 3 — Picking Glasses at a Store

What the Staff Might Ask:

• "Do you have your prescription with you?"

• "Are you looking for single vision or progressive lenses?"

• "Would you like anti-reflective coating?"

• "Would you like thinner lenses for your prescription?"

Lens Options in English:

If Buying Glasses Online

At Checkout, You'll See:

• "Enter your prescription"

• "Upload your prescription"

• "Add Pupillary Distance (PD)"

• "Select Lens Type"

• "Add Coatings"

Payment Words:

• "Subtotal" — Item total before taxes/shipping

• "Shipping Fee" — Delivery cost

• "Sales Tax" — US tax based on location

• "Discount Code / Promo Code" — Coupon for savings

Step 4 — If You Have Vision Insurance

What Staff Might Ask:

• "What’s your vision insurance provider?"

• "Do you have out-of-network benefits?"

• "Would you like us to submit the claim for you?"

If Buying from NextPair (Out-of-Network):

• Download invoice from your order

• Download claim form from your insurance

• Submit for reimbursement

Common Questions You Might Ask in English

• "How long will it take to get my glasses?"

• "Are adjustments free after I pick up the glasses?"

• "Is there a warranty on the lenses or frames?"

• "Can I return the glasses if they don’t fit well?"

If Something Feels Wrong After Wearing Glasses

What To Say:

• "My vision still feels blurry."

• "The frame doesn’t sit properly."

• "The lenses seem off-center."

Final Tips for Non-Native Speakers

• Always ask for a copy of your prescription

• Ask for PD measurement if ordering online

• Don’t be shy to ask them to slow down or explain

• Shopping online (like NextPair) means no pressure and easy steps in your language

Featured in this article -

• Guides for Eye tests in the US, Canada, and Australia.
• Guides to use vision insurance in the US, Canada, and Australia.
• NextPair, Eyewear designed for Asians, with 24h Chinese customer service