What to Expect at Your Target Optical Appointment

How Target Optical appointments work

Target Optical is an in-store optometry practice located inside Target stores. When you arrive for your appointment, you'll check in at the optical department counter — not at the main Target customer service desk. The optometrist or optician will see you in a private exam room within the optical area, separate from the main store floor.

Your appointment typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on whether you're having an eye exam, getting fitted for glasses or contacts, or both. Target Optical handles routine eye exams, contact lens fittings, and frame selection all in one location. If you need a more complex procedure or have a serious eye condition, the optometrist may refer you to an ophthalmologist (a medical eye doctor) elsewhere.

One practical advantage: if you're buying frames or contacts the same day, you can often complete the order before you leave. Glasses typically take 7 to 10 business days to arrive at your local store, though some simple prescriptions may be ready faster.

Key Takeaways

• Check in at the Target Optical counter inside your Target store, not at the main customer service desk.
• Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and a list of any current medications or eye conditions you want to discuss.
• An eye exam at Target Optical costs between $50 and $150 without insurance, depending on the type of exam and your location.
• If you're getting glasses, bring a current eyeglass prescription or contact lens prescription so the optician can verify your measurements.
• Glasses ordered at Target Optical usually arrive within 7 to 10 business days for pickup at your store.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring your photo ID and your insurance card if you have vision coverage. Even if you don't have insurance, Target Optical will still see you and can discuss the cost upfront. If you're switching from another eye doctor, you don't need to bring your old prescription — Target Optical will perform a new exam and create a new one.

If you wear contacts and want to continue with the same brand or type, bring an empty contact lens box or bottle so the optometrist can see the specifications. If you're having trouble with your current glasses or contacts, bring them along so the optician can assess the fit or lens quality.

Write down any questions beforehand, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, if you've had eye surgery, or if you're experiencing vision changes. Let the optometrist know about any medications you take, since some drugs can affect your vision or eye health.

What happens during an eye exam

The exam begins with a technician taking your vision history and measuring your current vision with a machine called a phoropter — the device with the clicking lenses that you look through. You'll read letters on a chart to determine your prescription strength. This part takes about 10 minutes.

Next, the optometrist will examine the front and back of your eye using specialized equipment. They'll check your eye pressure (important for glaucoma screening), look at your retina with a dilating lens, and assess how well your eyes work together. They may also perform a visual field test if you have risk factors for glaucoma or other conditions.

At the end, the optometrist will discuss the results with you, explain any changes in your prescription, and talk about frame or contact lens options. If they find signs of a serious condition — such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or cataracts — they'll refer you to an ophthalmologist for further care.

Costs and what insurance covers

An eye exam at Target Optical costs between $50 and $150 without insurance, depending on your location and the type of exam. Some exams include additional testing (like a visual field test or retinal imaging) that may cost more. Call your local Target Optical to ask about pricing before your appointment.

If you have vision insurance through your employer or a plan you purchased, bring your card. Many plans cover one routine eye exam per year at 100 percent, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket. Some plans require you to pay a copay ($10 to $25) or a coinsurance amount (a percentage of the cost). Target Optical can often check your coverage while you're there.

Glasses and contact lenses are separate from the exam cost. Target Optical frames range from $50 to $300 or more, and lenses add another $50 to $200 depending on your prescription strength and lens type (single vision, bifocal, progressive, or specialty lenses). Contact lenses cost $100 to $300 per box or per year, depending on the brand and how often you replace them.

Contact lens fitting and trial

If you want to start wearing contact lenses, the optometrist will perform a contact lens fitting in addition to your regular eye exam. This involves measuring the curve of your cornea with a device called a keratometer and determining the correct lens size and prescription for your eyes. The fitting takes an additional 15 to 20 minutes.

Target Optical will give you trial lenses to wear for a few days so you can decide if contacts are comfortable for you. You'll receive instructions on how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses. If you've never worn contacts before, ask the optician to show you the insertion and removal process in the office — most people need a few tries to get it right.

After your trial period, return to the store to discuss how the lenses felt. If they worked well, you can order your supply. If not, the optometrist can try a different brand, material, or fit. Some people need multiple fittings before finding the right lens.

Scheduling and cancellation

You can schedule a Target Optical appointment online through Target's website, by calling your local Target Optical department directly, or by walking in during business hours. Online scheduling shows available time slots for the next two to four weeks. Walk-in appointments are possible but may have a wait, especially during lunch hours or weekends.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so at least 24 hours in advance. Most Target Optical locations do not charge a cancellation fee, but calling ahead is courteous and ensures another patient can use that time slot. If you miss an appointment without canceling, some locations may ask you to reschedule before they see you again.

Target Optical hours vary by store. Most locations are open during regular Target store hours, which are typically 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, though this varies. Check your local store's hours before you go.

What to do after your appointment

If you ordered glasses, you'll receive a text or email when they're ready for pickup — usually within 7 to 10 business days. Bring your receipt or the order number when you pick them up. The optician will verify the fit and make any small adjustments for free.

If you ordered contact lenses, they may arrive at the store within a few days, or you may be able to pick them up immediately if they're in stock. Ask the optician when to expect delivery and whether you need to pick them up in person or if they can be mailed to your home.

Keep your prescription paperwork. Your eye prescription is valid for one to two years (depending on your state and age), and you can use it to order glasses or contacts from other retailers if you choose. If you have questions about your prescription or how to use your new glasses or contacts, call your local Target Optical — they're happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an eye exam at Target Optical without buying glasses?

Yes. You can have an eye exam and receive a prescription without purchasing anything from Target Optical. The exam cost is separate from frame and lens costs. Many people get their exam at one place and order glasses online elsewhere.

Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor to see an optometrist at Target Optical?

No. You can schedule an appointment directly with Target Optical without a referral. If your vision insurance requires a referral for coverage, check your plan documents or call your insurance company before your appointment.

What if my prescription changes during the appointment?

The optometrist will give you an updated prescription. If you already ordered glasses based on your old prescription, you can usually cancel the order or exchange it for new lenses at no extra charge if you catch it before the glasses are made. Ask the optician about the store's policy.

Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for an eye exam at Target Optical?

Yes. Target Optical accepts FSA and HSA cards for eye exams and glasses. Contact your local store to confirm they accept your specific card type, and bring the card with you to your appointment.

What if I have astigmatism or a strong prescription?

Target Optical can handle most prescriptions, including astigmatism, high myopia (nearsightedness), and high hyperopia (farsightedness). Specialty lenses for very strong prescriptions may cost more and take longer to make. The optician will discuss options and pricing during your appointment.