Costco Optical in Canada: eye exams, glasses and returns

Who does the eye exams at Costco?

Independent Doctors of Optometry, not Costco employees. Costco says exams are available at most locations, with more than 90 Costco Optical locations that have an independent optometrist in or near the department. Because the optometrist is independent, they set their own booking and exam fees; ask when you book.

What does Costco Optical sell?

Frames, prescription lenses, sunglasses, readers and contact lenses. Costco says its optical staff are trained, provincially licensed professionals, on duty during all warehouse opening hours. In Quebec, the Opti-Club optical centres inside Costco are owned and run by an independent optician.

Do you need a Costco membership for glasses?

Eyewear is a Costco purchase, so the membership rule applies: Costco's conditions say no sales are made without a valid membership card. The eye exam is with an independent optometrist, who sets their own rules; ask the clinic.

Can you return glasses to Costco?

Costco's return policy guarantees satisfaction on what it sells, and eyewear is not on its list of exceptions. If your new glasses aren't right, go back to the optical department first: it can usually remake them. Details in our return policy guide.

Which card should you use?

Optical purchases in the warehouse earn 1% on the CIBC Costco Mastercard. In Quebec, optical purchases are excluded from the Executive 2% reward.