If you're ordering glasses online, "Pupillary Distance (PD)" is the one technical term that makes everyone pause. It sounds complicated, but as SF-based eyewear experts with over 20+ years of experience, we're here to tell you: it's simple, and you can do it yourself in 2 minutes.
This guide will show you how.
First, What Is PD and Why Does It Matter?
Your Pupillary Distance (PD) is simply the distance, in millimeters, between the centers of your pupils (the black dots in your eyes).
This measurement is critical because it tells our lab exactly where to put the optical center of your prescription lenses. A correct PD ensures your vision is perfectly clear and prevents eye strain or headaches.
How to Get Your PD: The 3 Easy Ways
Method 1: Ask Your Doctor (The Easiest Way) After your next eye exam, simply ask your optometrist for your PD measurement. They are required to provide it to you with your prescription.
Method 2: Check Your Old Glasses If you have a pair of glasses that you see well with, a local optician can often measure the PD right from the lenses.
Method 3: Measure It Yourself (The 2-Minute Guide) This is the most popular method, and it's surprisingly easy.
You Will Need:
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A mirror
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A millimeter (mm) ruler (a regular ruler will work, just use the 'cm' side and remember 1cm = 10mm)
The Simple Steps:
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Stand about 8-10 inches from a mirror.
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Hold the ruler flat against your brow, just above your eyes.
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Close your right eye.
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Align the "0 mm" mark of the ruler with the exact center of your left pupil.
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Without moving the ruler, close your left eye and open your right eye.
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The millimeter measurement that aligns with the exact center of your right pupil is your PD.
Our Expert Tip: That's it! Do this 2-3 times to get a consistent number. Most adult PDs are between 54mm and 74mm.
"Dual" PD vs. "Single" PD
Sometimes, your doctor will give you two numbers, like 31/32. This is a "Dual PD," which measures from the center of your nose to each pupil.
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To get your "Single PD," just add the two numbers together. (e.g., 31 + 32 = 63mm).
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We can accept both dual and single PDs!
You're Ready to Order
Don't let a number stop you from finding the perfect pair. Now that you have your PD, you have the last key to ordering with confidence.
As a passionate, SF-based small business, our expert team is here to help. If you're still not sure, you can even email us a photo of your prescription, and we'll be happy to walk you through it.
