What the rule says
The FTC's Eyeglass Rule covers eyeglass prescriptions. According to the FTC, after an eye exam that includes a refraction, the prescriber must give you a copy of your eyeglass prescription right away, whether you ask for it or not.
The prescriber may not charge you a fee for the prescription beyond the exam fee, and may not require you to buy glasses or contact lenses from them. Under the rule, the prescriber may hold the prescription until you pay for the exam only if they would have required immediate payment from you even if the exam showed you needed no glasses; showing proof of insurance coverage counts as payment.
Scope and limits
This page covers eyeglass prescriptions only. It does not cover contact lenses, which have their own rule, and it does not say what happens in your specific case.
What you can do
Look through the paperwork from your last eye exam for a copy of the prescription. If you are not sure, you can ask the office: "Is a copy of my eyeglass prescription included with my exam, and is there any fee for it?" The FTC's consumer page points to ReportFraud.ftc.gov for reporting a violation.
The receipts, by email
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Related
Sources: FTC: Buying Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: Your Rights · 16 CFR § 456.2 (Eyeglass Rule, on eCFR)
Sources last checked: October 18, 2026.
Everything here is consumer information — not financial or legal advice. It covers what a rule says and where to find it; the decisions stay yours.