How to Measure Your PD (Pupillary Distance) at Home
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If you're buying glasses online, you’ll come across a term called PD, short for Pupillary Distance.
But what is it, and how do you measure it from home?
Let’s walk you through it 👇
👁️ What Is Pupillary Distance (PD)?
Your PD is the distance in millimetres between the centres of your pupils. It helps position the optical centre of your lenses exactly where your eyes naturally focus.
Getting this measurement right is essential for clear, comfortable vision—especially if you're wearing high prescriptions or varifocals.
🛠️ How to Measure Your PD at Home
There are a couple of easy methods you can try:
✅ Option 1: Use a Ruler and Mirror
You’ll need: A millimetre ruler, A mirror, Good lighting.
Steps:
1. Stand around 30cm away from the mirror.
2. Hold the ruler flat against your brow or bridge of your nose.
3. Close your right eye and line the 0mm mark up with the centre of your left pupil.
4. Now close your left eye and open your right.
5.Read the number directly over the centre of your right pupil.
👉 That’s your PD!
🧠 Tip: Do it a few times and take the average.
📸 Option 2: Ask Someone to Help You
It’s often easier to have a friend or family member measure your PD while you look straight ahead. They can use the same ruler technique and get a more accurate reading.
🔁 Average PD Ranges (For Reference)
Adult PD (most common): 58–66mm
Smaller PD/Petite: 42–54mm
If you have a "single PD": One number is enough.
If your optician gave a "dual PD": Use both (e.g., 31mm right + 33mm left)
🧠 Why PD Matters
Getting your PD right ensures:
- Your lenses are perfectly aligned
- You avoid eyestrain, headaches or blurred vision
- Your varifocals or progressives work as intended
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about anything—PD, prescriptions, or frame fitting—our qualified optometrists are just a message away.
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