Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

In most Canadian Costco locations, the optical department is run by independently licensed optometrists, and eye exams are open to the public — you generally don't need a Costco membership to book or attend one. A membership is typically only required to purchase glasses or contacts at member pricing.

Question 2

Is a Costco Optical eye exam covered by provincial health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The optometrists practicing inside Costco are independently licensed and can bill provincial health plans (OHIP, MSP, AHCIP, and others) the same as any other optometry clinic, subject to your province's standard age and frequency rules for coverage.

Question 3

Are Costco Optical eye exams the same quality as a regular optometry clinic?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Costco does not employ the optometrists directly — in Canada, provincial regulations generally require optometry practices to be owned and operated by licensed optometrists, so the exam room inside or beside Costco is run as an independent practice following the same clinical standards as any other clinic.

Question 4

How do I book an eye exam at a Costco Optical location?

Accepted Answer

Contact the optical department at your nearest Costco warehouse directly by phone to check availability and book an appointment.

Costco Optical Clinics in Canada

Locations