How to Schedule a Costco Eye Appointment Online

You can book a Costco eye exam online through their website or by calling the optical department at your local warehouse

Costco Optical does not offer a fully online booking system where you complete the entire appointment from home. Instead, you start the process online by finding your warehouse's optical department contact information, then call to confirm your appointment time. Some warehouses may allow you to request an appointment through their website contact form, but the final confirmation happens by phone.

The reason for this hybrid approach is that the optometrist or ophthalmologist needs to discuss your vision history and any specific concerns before the appointment. A brief phone conversation lets them know what to expect and ensures they have the right equipment ready for your exam.

Key Takeaways

• Visit Costco.com and search for your local warehouse's optical department phone number to request or schedule an appointment.
• Call the optical department directly to confirm your appointment time, as most bookings require a phone conversation.
• Have your Costco membership card number ready when you call, though non-members can also receive eye exams at Costco.
• Bring your current glasses or contact lens prescription if you have one, along with your insurance card if your vision plan covers exams.
• Eye exams at Costco typically take 30 to 45 minutes, and you can often purchase glasses or contacts the same day.

Finding your warehouse's optical department online

Go to Costco.com and use the warehouse locator tool. Enter your zip code or city, and the results will show all nearby Costco locations. Click on the warehouse closest to you, and look for the optical department phone number and hours listed on that location's page.

Not every warehouse has an optical department, so confirm that your chosen location offers eye exams before calling. If your nearest warehouse does not have one, the locator will show you the next closest option that does. Some smaller or newer warehouses operate without optical services, so this step saves you a wasted phone call.

What to say when you call to book

Call the optical department directly and tell them you want to schedule an eye exam. Have these details ready: your preferred date and time, whether you are a Costco member, and whether you have vision insurance. If you do not know your insurance details, you can provide them when you arrive for the appointment.

The staff member will ask whether you are a new patient to that optical department or an existing one. They will also confirm whether you want an exam only or if you plan to purchase glasses or contacts. Let them know if you have specific concerns, such as difficulty reading, distance vision problems, or dry eyes, so the optometrist can plan accordingly.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring your current glasses or contact lens prescription if you have one. If you wear contacts, bring the box or bottle so the optometrist can see the brand and strength. Bring your Costco membership card if you have one, though it is not required to receive an exam.

Bring your insurance card if your vision plan covers eye exams. Costco Optical accepts most major vision insurance plans, including VSP, EyeMed, and others. If you are unsure whether your plan is accepted, call the optical department when you book and they can tell you. Bring a valid photo ID as well.

How the exam works and what happens after

The optometrist or ophthalmologist will test your vision using standard equipment: a phoropter (the machine with the different lenses), an eye chart, and other diagnostic tools. The exam usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. They will check your distance vision, near vision, eye pressure, and the health of your eye structures. If you wear contacts, they may perform additional measurements.

After the exam, you will receive a written prescription that you can use anywhere — at Costco or at another optical retailer. If you want to order glasses or contacts at Costco, you can do that the same day. Costco's optical department is in the warehouse, so you can browse frames while you wait for your prescription to be filled. Glasses typically take a few days to a week; contacts can sometimes be ordered on the spot if Costco carries your prescription.

Cost and insurance coverage

Costco Optical charges a flat fee for eye exams that varies slightly by location, typically ranging from $60 to $100 for members and slightly more for non-members. This price is often lower than independent optometry offices. If your vision insurance covers exams, you may pay only a copay, which is usually $10 to $25.

Glasses and contact lens prices at Costco are generally competitive. Frames start around $50 to $60, and lenses are added based on your prescription complexity. Contact lenses are priced per box, with prices varying by brand. Ask about any current promotions when you call to book, as Costco sometimes runs discounts on frames or lens upgrades.

What to do if your preferred time is not available

If the optical department cannot fit you in at your preferred time, ask when the next opening is. Costco optical departments can be busy, especially on weekends and after work hours. If you are flexible, weekday mornings often have shorter wait times.

You can also ask to be placed on a cancellation list. If another patient cancels, the optical department may call you to offer that slot. Some warehouses allow you to check appointment availability on their website or through a phone system, so ask the staff member whether that option exists at your location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Costco membership to get an eye exam?

No. Non-members can receive eye exams at Costco Optical without a membership. However, members typically pay a lower exam fee. If you do not have a membership, ask about the non-member price when you call to book.

Can I order glasses online after my Costco eye exam?

Costco does not currently offer a full online ordering system for glasses using your new prescription. You must order glasses in person at the optical department or by calling them. You can pick up your finished glasses at the warehouse or request shipping to your home.

How long does it take to get glasses after my exam?

Standard glasses usually take 5 to 7 business days. Rush orders may be available for an extra fee and can be ready in 2 to 3 days. Ask about turnaround time when you pick up your prescription or place your order.

What if I need a contact lens fitting?

Contact lens fittings are included in the eye exam at Costco. The optometrist will measure your eyes and may have you try on a test lens to ensure proper fit. You can order contacts the same day, though availability depends on your prescription and the brands Costco stocks.

Can I use my Costco eye exam prescription at another optical store?

Yes. Your prescription is yours to use anywhere. You are not required to purchase glasses or contacts from Costco, though their prices are often competitive. Some vision insurance plans have preferred providers, so check your plan before ordering elsewhere.