P U P I L L A R Y  D I S T A N C E

Pupillary Distance can be defined as the length (in millimeters) between the pupils of your eyes. When determining the correct shaped lens and alignment for your glasses, the optician needs to know your pupillary distance. Your pupillary distance (PD) is commonly noted at the bottom of your prescription.

If you want to measure your own pupillary distance, you need two simple things: a ruler (in millimeters) and a friend or family member. Next, have your friend face you at arm's length with the ruler and map the distance between the pupil of your left eye to the pupil of your right eye, or vice versa. Although it may be a little more difficult, you can also measure your PD on your own by standing about 8 inches away from a mirror while placing the ruler on your brow bone. If you want to align the ruler to the center of your pupil, it helps to close the opposite eye. Adults PD typically ranges between 55-65 while children PD typically ranges between 42-54.

Just as there are two ways to measure your pupillary distance, there are two kinds of pupillary distances. Binocular PD, which is what we have been referring to up to this point, is a measurement of the distance between your two pupils, this typically ranges between 41-80 mm. Monocular PD is the measurement of the distance between the center of your pupil, to the center of your face, this typically ranges from 20-40 mm. Monocular PD is commonly used for individuals whose faces are not perfectly symmetrical.

If your prescription does not include your PD, you can either measure it yourself, ask a friend for help, or go back to your optometrist. However, most eyecare providers include your PD measurement in a complete eye exam.

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