How to Schedule an Eye Appointment at Costco Online

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

Costco does not offer a single national online booking system for eye appointments. Instead, each warehouse's optical department handles scheduling independently. You can reach out to your local Costco optical center by phone, or visit the Costco website and use their optical department locator to find contact information for the warehouse nearest you.

Some Costco locations may have online scheduling through their website or a third-party appointment system, but this varies by location. The most reliable method is to call your local Costco optical department directly and ask what appointment times are available. When you call, have your insurance information ready if you plan to use vision coverage.

You do not need to be a Costco member to have an eye exam at Costco, though you will need a membership to purchase glasses or contacts there. The eye exam itself is open to non-members.

Key Takeaways

• Costco optical departments schedule appointments individually by location, so you must contact your local warehouse directly by phone or through their website.
• You can find your nearest Costco optical center and its phone number using the Costco website's store locator tool.
• Eye exams at Costco are open to non-members, but you need a membership to purchase glasses or contacts from their optical department.
• When you call to schedule, have your vision insurance information available so the optical staff can tell you what your coverage includes.

How to find your local Costco optical department contact information

Go to the Costco website and use the store locator tool. Enter your city, state, or ZIP code. The results will show all Costco warehouses near you, and each listing includes a phone number and hours of operation.

Click on the warehouse closest to you. The optical department operates during the same hours as the warehouse, though some locations may have slightly different schedules. Call the main warehouse number and ask to be transferred to the optical department, or ask for the direct phone number to the optical center.

What information to have ready when you call

Before you call, gather your current vision insurance card or policy number. If you do not have vision insurance, let the optical staff know so they can quote you the cash price for an exam. Costco's eye exam prices vary by location but are typically lower than independent optometry offices.

Have your preferred appointment dates and times in mind, though availability depends on the specific location. Ask whether the optical department has same-day or next-day appointments, or if you need to schedule further out. Some locations are busier than others, especially during lunch hours and weekends.

If you wear contact lenses, mention that when you schedule so the optometrist can plan time for a contact lens fitting if needed. If you are a new patient to that Costco optical center, the staff may ask you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete paperwork.

What to expect during your Costco eye exam

A Costco eye exam typically includes a vision screening, eye pressure measurement, and a dilated eye exam to check the health of your retina and optic nerve. The exam usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You will receive a copy of your prescription at the end, which you can use to purchase glasses or contacts anywhere, not just at Costco.

The optometrist will ask about your medical history, current medications, and any vision problems you have noticed. Bring your current glasses or contacts if you have them, as the optometrist may want to check how well they are working for you.

Costco optical membership and pricing

You do not need a Costco membership to have an eye exam, but you do need one to purchase eyeglasses or contact lenses from the optical department. If you are not a member and want to buy glasses after your exam, you can purchase a membership at that time or use your prescription elsewhere.

Costco members typically pay less for frames and lenses than non-members. The optical department also offers lens coatings and upgrades like progressive lenses or blue-light filtering at additional cost. Ask the optical staff about all available options and pricing before you decide to purchase.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring a valid photo ID and your vision insurance card. If you are a Costco member, bring your membership card. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing heavy eye makeup, as the optometrist may need to examine your eyelids closely.

If you are picking up glasses or contacts after your exam, bring a payment method. Some Costco optical departments accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and Costco Cash cards. Ask about payment options when you schedule if you have a preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule a Costco eye appointment online without calling?

Most Costco locations do not offer online booking. Your best option is to call your local warehouse optical department directly. A few locations may have online scheduling through the Costco website, so check your local warehouse's page first before calling.

How much does a Costco eye exam cost?

Prices vary by location and whether you have vision insurance. Costco eye exams are generally less expensive than independent optometry offices. Call your local optical department for a specific price quote, or ask about your insurance coverage when you schedule.

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

No. Eye exams are open to non-members. You only need a membership if you want to purchase glasses or contacts from the optical department after your exam.

What if I need glasses or contacts after my exam?

You can order glasses or contacts through Costco's optical department on the same day as your exam, or you can take your prescription to another retailer. Costco members typically receive a discount on frames and lenses compared to non-members.

How long does a Costco eye exam take?

Plan for 30 to 45 minutes for the exam itself. If you are a new patient, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete paperwork. If you are also ordering glasses or contacts, that process takes additional time.