Can You Order Prescription Lenses Online? Here’s What to Know

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to order just lenses online—without buying new frames—you’re not alone. The answer is yes, and it’s more affordable, faster, and easier than you might think.

At Cali Optics, we specialize in helping people replace the lenses in their favorite frames, all from the comfort of home. Whether your prescription changed, your lenses are scratched, or you just want to upgrade, you don’t need to start over with a whole new pair of glasses.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

  • ✅ What you'll need to order prescription lenses online

  • 🕶 Whether your current frames can be re-used

  • 💡 The different types of lenses available (single vision, progressive, Transitions®, etc.)

  • 💵 How much you should expect to pay (hint: it’s probably less than you think)

  • 🚚 How shipping works and how long it takes

  • 🇺🇸 Why made-in-USA lenses make a difference

Ordering lenses online isn’t just possible—it’s smart. If you like your frames, keep them. 

If your prescription changed, your lenses are scratched, or you’re just ready for an upgrade, you might be wondering:

Do I really need to buy a whole new pair of frames?

The answer is no.
You can in fact order prescription lenses online—and at Cali Optics, it’s what we do best.

Whether you wear single vision, progressives, or photochromic (like Transitions®), we make it easy to update your lenses without leaving home—and without breaking the bank.

Here’s what to know before you get started.

What You’ll Need to Order Prescription Lenses Online

Ordering lenses online is simple. All you need is to upload:

  • Your latest spectacle prescription (not your contact lens prescription)

  • A selfie wearing the frames

  • A few minutes to complete your order

Can I Reuse My Current Frames?

In most cases, yes.

If your frames are in good shape and not heavily damaged, we can install new lenses right into them.

Whether you’re upgrading your lenses, replacing a scratched pair, or switching to a new type, reusing your favorite frames is not only sentimental—it’s sustainable.

Note: If we receive your frames and find they can’t be safely re-lensed, we’ll let you know right away and won’t proceed until you’re in the loop.

What Types of Lenses Can I Order?

We specialize in Single Vision lenses — but if you need something else, we’ve got you covered.
From progressives to photochromics (like Transitions®), we can source virtually any lens on the market today, and offer custom quotes to ensure you get the best possible price.

How Much Do Online Prescription Lenses Cost?

That’s where Cali Optics really stands out.

Our iconic Single Vision Plus lenses start at $99 with free shipping, made right here in the USA. No upsell, no hidden fees, no insurance required.

Compare that to $200+ at traditional optical shops, and it’s clear why more people are skipping the storefront.

How Does the Process Work?

We keep things easy and transparent:

  1. Place your order through our site

  2. Send us your frames using our supplied shipping label

  3. We install your new lenses

  4. You get your glasses back—like new

Most orders are completed within just a few business days. And if there’s ever an issue, our team is here to help.

Why Choose Made-in-USA Lenses?

Cali Optics was built to provide high-quality, affordable lenses—without outsourcing.

We surface and cut lenses in California, with experienced opticians and industry-leading equipment. You get the quality you deserve, without the markup.

It also means faster turnaround times, better customer service, and a company you can actually talk to.

Bottom Line

Ordering prescription lenses online is smart, simple, and surprisingly affordable.
And if you already love your frames, there’s no reason to start over.

Let Cali Optics handle the lens work—you’ve got better things to see.

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