Can you get an eye exam, glasses, or contact lenses at Target in the United States? This guide covers Target Optical eye exams, prices, prescription glasses, contact lenses, progressive lenses, high-index lenses, Transitions, vision insurance, FSA/HSA, prescription requirements, and current price references.
Target Optical USA Guide｜Eye Exam Prices, Glasses, Contact Lenses, Insurance & FSA/HSA
If you live in the United States and need a new eye exam, prescription glasses, or contact lenses, Target Optical is another convenient option to consider in addition to Costco Optical.
Many Target locations have Target Optical departments where customers can shop for prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, and contact lenses. You can also schedule an eye exam through Target Optical locations.
One major difference from Costco is that Target Optical does not require a paid membership to purchase eyewear or contact lenses.
However, first-time customers can easily assume that the eye exam, Target Optical, and contact lens exam are all the same service.
They are not.
In many states, eye exams at Target Optical locations are provided by Independent Doctors of Optometry operating in or near the optical department. Arrangements can differ by state. In California, for example, Target Optical explains that eye exams are provided by independent doctors who lease space at Target Optical locations rather than by Target Optical itself.
Target Optical USA Quick Guide
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Can you get an eye exam? | Yes, eye exams can be scheduled through Target Optical locations |
| Eye doctor | Independent Doctor of Optometry at many locations |
| Paid membership required? | No |
| Prescription glasses available? | Yes |
| Contact lenses available? | Yes |
| Can you bring another doctor’s prescription? | Yes, as long as it is valid |
| Progressive lenses | Available; complex prescriptions are best handled in store |
| High-index lenses | Available |
| Transitions lenses | Available |
| Vision insurance | Many plans accepted; benefits can be checked online |
| FSA / HSA | Eligible for many eye exams, glasses, prescription sunglasses, and contacts |
| Online shopping | Prescription glasses and contact lenses available |
Can You Get an Eye Exam at Target Optical?
Yes.
Target Optical provides an online system where you can search by city, state, or ZIP Code and schedule an eye exam at participating locations.
However, Target Optical and the doctor performing the exam are not always the same business.
At many locations, the exam is provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry.
That means the following can vary by location:
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Eye exam fees
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Contact lens exam fees
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Retinal imaging fees
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Dilation services
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Vision insurance participation
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Walk-in availability
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Same-day appointments
This is why Target does not have one nationwide eye exam price.
How Do You Schedule a Target Eye Exam?
The process is relatively simple.
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Find a nearby Target Optical location.
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Select Eye Exam.
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View the local optometrist.
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Choose a date and time.
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Check the exam fee.
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Confirm insurance participation.
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Visit the location for your exam.
Some locations may offer walk-in or same-day exams, but availability varies.
It is better to confirm before going.
Is an Eye Exam the Same as a Contact Lens Exam?
Not exactly.
If you only need prescription glasses, a comprehensive eye exam may be enough.
If you also wear contact lenses, you may need:
Contact Lens Exam
Contact Lens Fitting
A contact lens prescription requires more than your basic nearsightedness or farsightedness correction.
It may include:
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OD / OS
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Sphere / Power
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Cylinder
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Axis
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BC
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DIA
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ADD
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Contact Lens Brand
If you want both glasses and contacts, it is helpful to say when booking:
“I need an eye exam and a contact lens prescription.”
Do You Need Another Eye Exam If You Already Have a Prescription?
Not necessarily.
If you already have a valid eyeglasses prescription, you can use it to purchase prescription glasses from Target Optical.
Target Optical also allows customers purchasing prescription eyewear online to provide or upload a valid prescription.
So you can:
Get an exam from your own optometrist
↓
Receive your prescription
↓
Shop for glasses at Target Optical
You do not have to repeat your eye exam simply because you are buying from Target.
What Types of Glasses Does Target Optical Offer?
Target Optical has a fairly broad selection.
Options commonly include:
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Single Vision
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Prescription Glasses
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Prescription Sunglasses
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High Index Lenses
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Transitions Lenses
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Blue-violet Light Filtering Lenses
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Kids Glasses
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Designer Frames
Brands commonly available include:
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Ray-Ban
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Oakley
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Coach
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Armani Exchange
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Vogue Eyewear
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A New Day
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Goodfellow & Co.
If you want a more affordable pair, Target’s lower-priced frame collections are a good place to start.
Can People With Strong Prescriptions Use Target Optical?
Yes.
If you have a stronger prescription, ask about High Index Lenses.
High-index lenses are designed to reduce lens thickness and weight compared with traditional lenses at higher prescriptions.
You can ask:
“Do you recommend high-index lenses for my prescription?”
Frame size also affects how thick the final lenses may be, so people with stronger prescriptions should consider both lens material and frame shape.
Does Target Optical Offer Transitions Lenses?
Yes.
Target Optical offers Transitions photochromic lenses.
These lenses remain relatively clear indoors and darken when exposed to outdoor light.
They can be useful if you want one pair of glasses that works both indoors and outdoors without carrying separate prescription sunglasses.
Available Transitions products and lens options can vary.
Does Target Optical Offer Blue Light Glasses?
Target Optical offers blue-violet light filtering lens options.
These can be added to certain prescription or non-prescription clear lenses.
However, blue-light filtering eyewear should be treated as a product feature rather than as a treatment or prevention method for eye disease.
Does Target Optical Offer Free Glasses Adjustments?
Yes.
Target Optical offers free fitting and adjustment services.
You can ask for help if your glasses are:
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Sitting unevenly
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Too loose
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Sliding down
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Uncomfortable around the nose
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In need of temple adjustment
You can also ask about cleaning and routine fitting assistance.
Can You Buy Contact Lenses at Target?
Yes.
Target Optical has a full contact lens section both online and at participating locations.
Common brands include:
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ACUVUE
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DAILIES
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Alcon
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CooperVision
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Bausch + Lomb
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Up&Up
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Biofinity
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PRECISION1
Available categories include:
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Daily Disposable
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Astigmatism
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Multifocal
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2-Week
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Monthly
Do You Need a Prescription to Buy Contact Lenses at Target?
Yes.
You need a valid Contact Lens Prescription.
Contact lenses are prescription medical devices in the United States, so your order needs to match the brand and specifications prescribed by your eye doctor.
If you already completed a Contact Lens Exam with another optometrist, you generally do not need to repeat the exam at Target simply to place an order.
Can You Return Target Contact Lenses?
Yes, under certain conditions.
Target Optical currently states that contact lenses generally need to be:
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Unopened
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Unexpired
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Factory sealed
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Returned with the original receipt
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Returned within the applicable return period
The current return period for qualifying contact lens boxes is 90 days.
Always check the latest policy before purchasing.
Does Target Optical Accept Vision Insurance?
Target Optical accepts many major vision insurance plans and provides an online insurance-benefit lookup tool.
Depending on your plan, you may be able to enter information such as:
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Insurance Carrier
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Date of Birth
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ZIP Code
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Group ID
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Member ID
Vision benefits may apply toward:
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Frames
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Lenses
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Contact Lenses
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Eye Exams
The exact amount depends on your specific insurance plan.
Does the Eye Doctor Accept the Same Insurance as Target Optical?
Not necessarily.
This is very important.
If your eye exam is provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry, that doctor may have a separate insurance network from Target Optical.
For example:
Target Optical may accept your vision plan
but
the doctor performing your exam may be out-of-network.
Before your appointment, confirm both:
-
Is the eye exam in-network?
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Can my glasses or contact lens benefits be used at Target Optical?
Can You Use FSA or HSA at Target Optical?
Yes.
Target Optical states that eligible FSA and HSA funds may be used for:
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Eye Exams
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Eyeglasses
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Prescription Sunglasses
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Contact Lenses
FSA and HSA cards can generally be used online or in-store like a payment card.
This can be especially useful toward the end of the year if you still have FSA funds available.
Eligibility always depends on your own FSA or HSA plan rules.
Target Optical vs. Costco Optical
If you are comparing the two, the better choice depends on how you shop.
Target Optical
A good fit for people who:
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Do not have Costco membership
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Want to schedule an eye exam online
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Want designer frames
-
Want to check vision insurance benefits online
-
Want to use FSA / HSA
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Need both glasses and contact lenses
-
Prefer shopping at Target
Costco Optical
A good fit for people who:
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Already have Costco membership
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Frequently shop at Costco
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Want to compare Costco contact lens pricing
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Prefer Costco Optical’s eyewear selection
One of the biggest practical differences is simple:
Target Optical does not require a paid membership.
Eye exam prices at both retailers, however, can vary by doctor and location.
First-Time Target Optical Process
Step 1｜Find a Target Optical Location
Confirm that the Target near you actually has a Target Optical department.
Step 2｜Schedule an Eye Exam
Check the local doctor’s:
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Exam Fee
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Insurance
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Appointment Availability
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Contact Lens Services
Step 3｜Decide What You Need
For glasses only:
Comprehensive Eye Exam
For contact lenses:
Eye Exam + Contact Lens Exam / Fitting
Step 4｜Complete Your Eye Exam
Receive the prescriptions you need.
Step 5｜Choose Your Glasses
Compare:
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Frames
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Single Vision
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Progressive
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High Index
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Transitions
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Blue-violet Light Filtering
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Prescription Sunglasses
Step 6｜Order Contact Lenses If Needed
Use your valid Contact Lens Prescription and purchase the exact brand and specifications prescribed by your eye doctor.
Step 7｜Compare Insurance and FSA / HSA Options
Before paying, compare whether it is better to use:
Vision Insurance Benefits
or
a current Target Optical promotion.
Some promotional offers cannot be combined with insurance benefits.
Who Is Target Optical Best For?
People Without Costco Membership
Target Optical is convenient because there is no paid membership requirement.
People Looking for Brand-Name Frames
Target Optical carries brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Coach, Armani Exchange, and Vogue Eyewear.
People With Vision Insurance
You can check or sync eligible benefits online before buying.
People With FSA / HSA Funds
Eligible eye exams, prescription eyewear, prescription sunglasses, and contact lenses can be useful FSA or HSA expenses.
Regular Contact Lens Wearers
Target Optical frequently offers annual-supply, six-month-supply, and new-customer promotions, making it worth comparing with other contact lens retailers.
Tips Before Visiting Target Optical
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Target eye exam prices are not standardized nationwide.
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In many states, exams are provided by Independent Doctors of Optometry, although arrangements differ by state.
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In California, independent doctors provide exams rather than Target Optical itself.
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A regular eye exam and contact lens exam are not exactly the same.
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Contact lenses require a valid Contact Lens Prescription.
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If you already have a valid prescription, you can generally use it to purchase glasses.
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Target Optical does not require a paid membership.
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Target Optical and the eye doctor may participate in different insurance networks.
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Eligible FSA / HSA funds may be used according to current rules.
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Promotions, eyewear pricing, and contact lens pricing can change, so verify current offers before checkout.
Final Thoughts: Target Optical Is a Convenient Option for Eye Exams, Glasses, and Contact Lenses in the U.S.
If you live in the United States and do not necessarily have a Costco membership, Target Optical is one of the easier optical retailers to use.
You can search for an eye exam appointment online, shop for prescription glasses after your exam, or bring a valid prescription from another doctor.
If you wear contacts, Target Optical also carries major brands including ACUVUE, DAILIES, CooperVision, and Bausch + Lomb.
Add in vision insurance support, FSA / HSA payment options, online ordering, and physical store locations, and the overall process is relatively straightforward for people who are new to the U.S.
The most important thing is to separate the different services:
An Eye Exam checks your vision.
Prescription Glasses are purchased through Target Optical.
A Contact Lens Exam provides the measurements and prescription needed for contacts.
Target Optical is the retailer where you can buy glasses and contact lenses.
Once you understand those differences, getting an eye exam and new eyewear in the United States becomes much easier.
Disclaimer:
This article provides general U.S. consumer and lifestyle information and does not constitute medical advice. Eye exams, contact lens exams, prescriptions, eye conditions, and individual vision needs should be evaluated by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist. Target Optical services, doctor arrangements, prices, insurance participation, promotions, products, lenses, and contact lens inventory may vary by state, location, and date. Always confirm the latest information directly with Target Optical, your local eye doctor, and your vision insurance provider.
FAQ
Can You Get an Eye Exam at Target?
Yes. Target Optical provides an eye exam scheduling system, and exams at many locations are provided by Independent Doctors of Optometry.
Do You Need Target Membership for an Eye Exam?
No paid Target membership is required to use Target Optical.
Can You Buy Prescription Glasses at Target Optical?
Yes. Target Optical sells adult and children’s prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, and multiple frame brands. You can also use a valid prescription from another doctor.
Does Target Optical Offer High Index Lenses?
Yes. High-index lenses are available for qualifying prescriptions and may be useful for stronger prescriptions where thinner, lighter lenses are preferred.
Does Target Optical Offer Transitions Lenses?
Yes. Target Optical offers Transitions photochromic lens options.
Can You Buy Contact Lenses at Target?
Yes. Target Optical sells daily, two-week, monthly, astigmatism, and multifocal lenses from major brands.
Do You Need a Prescription for Target Contact Lenses?
Yes. You need a valid Contact Lens Prescription.
Does Target Optical Accept Vision Insurance?
Target Optical accepts many vision insurance plans, and benefits can often be checked online. Actual coverage depends on your plan.
Can You Use FSA / HSA at Target Optical?
Yes. Eligible FSA / HSA funds may be used for qualifying eye exams, eyeglasses, prescription sunglasses, and contact lenses.
Target Eye Exam, Glasses & Contact Lens Price Guide
Target Eye Exam prices are not standardized nationwide because individual eye doctors set their own fees.
Examples from Target Optical doctor-location pages checked in August 2026 included:
| Location | Eye Exam Starting Price | Contact Lens Exam / Fitting Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, Missouri | From US$89 | From US$50 |
| Charlotte, North Carolina | From US$100 | From US$175, with fitting and eyeglass exam included at that location |
| Orlando, Florida | From US$105 | From US$175, with fitting and eyeglass exam included at that location |
| Fairfax, Virginia | From US$114 | From US$80 |
| Some McKinney, Texas locations | From US$125 | From US$205, with fitting and eyeglass exam included at that location |
These examples show why it is not accurate to say that a Target eye exam has one fixed national price.
The services included in an exam can also differ by location, including dilation, retinal imaging, eyeglass exams, and contact lens fittings.
Target Optical currently advertises an entry-level adult prescription glasses promotion at:
Complete Pair, Frame + Lenses: From US$79
The adult promotion applies to selected A New Day and Goodfellow & Co. frames with qualifying single-vision ComfortLight plastic lenses.
Frame or lens upgrades cost extra, and the offer generally cannot be combined with vision insurance benefits or certain other promotions.
For customers age 17 and under, Target Optical has also advertised qualifying complete pairs starting at:
US$59
with selected frames and single-vision ComfortLight Kids polycarbonate lenses.
Examples of Target Optical contact lens prices checked in August 2026 included:
| Contact Lenses | Price Reference |
|---|---|
| ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day with HydraLuxe 90-pack | About US$126.99 / box |
| ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day for Astigmatism 90-pack | About US$151.99 / box |
| ACUVUE OASYS with HYDRACLEAR PLUS 24-pack | About US$218.99 / box |
| Biotrue ONEday 90-pack | About US$87.99 / box |
| Up&Up 1-Day Performance 90-pack | About US$92.99 / box |
Actual checkout prices may be lower because of annual-supply offers, new-customer promotions, manufacturer rebates, or vision insurance.
Target Optical also periodically offers discounts on annual or six-month supplies of qualifying contact lenses.
Promotions and eligibility rules can change, and some discounts cannot be combined with other offers.
Data Sources:
Target Optical official website, Target Optical Eye Exams, Target Optical Insurance, Target Optical FSA/HSA, Target Optical Contact Lenses, Target Optical Special Offers, and Target Optical local doctor pages.
