How long does it take to order glasses online?

Prescription orders take 5–10 working days because lenses are made to order. Frame-only orders dispatch within 1–2 working days.

Can I return prescription glasses if they don’t fit?

Prescription glasses are made to order and aren’t generally returnable unless faulty. Non-prescription frames can be returned within 30 days.

Do I need a sight test to order glasses online?

Yes for prescription lenses. We accept prescriptions up to two years old. For non-prescription frames or off-the-shelf readers, no sight test is needed.

How to Order Prescription Glasses Online

Buying prescription glasses online for the first time can feel intimidating. It doesn’t need to be. Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of how it works at Ardor Eyewear — from sight test to delivery.

Step 1 — Get a current sight test

If your last sight test was more than two years ago, book a new one. Most UK opticians offer free or NHS-eligible sight tests, and many have evening or weekend appointments.

After the test, ask for a copy of your prescription. By law your optician must give you one. You’ll also want your pupillary distance (PD) — if it’s not on the prescription, see how to measure your PD.

Step 2 — Choose your frame

Browse by gender, brand, or style. If you’re unsure of size, see our size guide or message us with a head-on photo and we’ll suggest fits.

Tips:

Look for a frame within 2 mm of a current pair you like the fit of
Try the Face Shape Quiz if you’d like style suggestions
For varifocals, choose from our varifocal-ready collection to ensure compatibility

Step 3 — Choose your lenses

At checkout, you’ll choose:

Lens type — single vision, reading, or varifocal
Lens index — 1.50, 1.59, 1.60, 1.67, or 1.74 (see our lens guide)
Optional coatings — blue-light filter, photochromic, polarised (sunglasses only)

Standard coatings (anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, UV) come included with every lens.

Step 4 — Enter your prescription

Type your prescription values into the form. Need help? See how to read your prescription. You can also upload a photo of your prescription for us to check before we make your lenses.

Step 5 — Pay and place your order

We accept all major cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Klarna. UK prices include VAT.

Step 6 — We make your lenses

Prescription lenses are made to order, which usually takes 5–10 working days. We’ll email a tracking link the moment your glasses dispatch.

Step 7 — Try them on

When your glasses arrive, give them a few days to settle in. New prescriptions or new frame styles can take a short time to feel natural. If they don’t feel right after a week of consistent wear, contact us — we’ll help.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the whole process take?

From booking a sight test to wearing your new glasses, usually 2–3 weeks if you don’t already have a prescription, or 5–10 working days if you do.

What if I’ve never bought glasses online before?

Start with a frame style similar to one you already own. Use the size from your current pair. If it’s your first pair entirely, message us with a photo and we’ll guide you.

Can I return them if they don’t fit?

Non-prescription frames within 30 days. Prescription glasses are made to order and aren’t generally returnable unless faulty — which is why we strongly recommend checking sizes and messaging us before ordering if you’re unsure.

What if my prescription is very strong?

Higher prescriptions need higher-index lenses to keep the lens thin. Above ±5.00 we typically recommend 1.67 or 1.74 index. Message us with your prescription and we’ll suggest the best lens.