How Long Does It Take to Get an Eye Exam for Contacts?

If you’re thinking about wearing contact lenses or updating your current prescription, it’s normal to wonder how long you’ll be at the eye doctor. At RCP Eyecare, most contact lens exams take between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on whether you’re new to contacts, if you need extra testing, and how complex your vision needs are. We do our best to respect your time while making sure your lenses are safe, comfortable, and tailored to you.
 

Contact Lens Exam vs. Regular Eye Exam

A regular eye exam focuses on your prescription and overall eye health. A contact lens exam includes that, but also takes things a step further. In addition to checking how clearly you see, we measure the shape and size of your eyes, evaluate how well your tears keep your eyes lubricated, and look for any conditions like dry eye or allergies that might affect your comfort in contacts.

We also use this information to recommend the best type of contact lens for your vision, lifestyle, and wearing habits. Because of these extra steps, a contact lens exam usually takes a bit longer than a glasses-only exam, but that extra time is what helps make contact lens wear successful and comfortable.
 

New Contact Lens Wearers: About 60-90 Minutes

If you’ve never worn contacts before, plan a bit more time. Your visit typically includes:

• A comprehensive eye exam (about 20-30 minutes)

• Measurements and a contact lens fitting (about 15-25 minutes)

• Insertion and removal training (about 20-30 minutes), where you’ll practice putting lenses in and taking them out safely

Learning how to handle your lenses can take a few tries, and that’s normal. Our team will work with you until you feel comfortable.
 

Existing Contact Lens Wearers: About 30-60 Minutes

If you already wear contacts, your visit is usually shorter. We will:

• Check your current lens fit and prescription

• Evaluate your eye health

• Adjust your lenses if you’re having issues like dryness, blur, or discomfort

If you’re switching to multifocal, toric, or other specialty lenses, we may spend a bit more time fine-tuning your fit and vision.
 

What Can Make the Appointment Longer?

Your exam may take a little longer if:

• Your prescription has changed significantly

• You have astigmatism, presbyopia, or dry eye

• You’re being fit for multifocal, toric, or specialty lenses

• We recommend treating dryness or irritation before full-time lens wear

These extra steps help protect your eyes and improve long-term comfort.
 

Will I Need a Follow-Up Visit?

Many patients who are new to contacts, or who have switched to a new lens brand or design, benefit from a short follow-up visit. This is typically scheduled about one to two weeks after your initial exam and usually takes only 10 to 20 minutes. During this visit, we check that your lenses are still fitting well, that your eyes look healthy, and that your vision remains clear throughout the day.
 

Ready to Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam?

In general, you can expect a contact lens exam at RCP Eyecare to take about 60-90 minutes if you’re new to contacts, and 30-60 minutes if you’re an existing contact lens wearer. Our goal is to make the experience smooth, informative, and reassuring, so you leave feeling confident about your vision and your lenses.

If you’re considering contact lenses or it’s time to update your prescription, RCP Eyecare can help. Contact any of our seven locations in San Antonio or Selma, Texas. Visit our website to book an appointment or call our office in Quarry Village (210) 988-6897, Northwoods (210) 545-3183, Shops at Westpointe (210) 866-7555, La Cantera (210) 641-2405, Bandera Pointe (726) 208-6454, Ingram Festival (210) 520-0335, or The Forum (210) 659-1479.