Costa replacement lenses are sold through authorized retailers, the Costa website, and third-party lens specialists
Costa replacement lenses come from a few reliable sources, and which one you choose depends on whether you want the official Costa product, a faster turnaround, or a lower price. The most straightforward route is Costa's own website or an authorized dealer — both stock genuine lenses and can match your frame model. If you need lenses fast or want options beyond Costa's standard lineup, independent lens labs can cut and install lenses into your Costa frames, often at a lower cost than the manufacturer charges.
Before you buy from anywhere, you will need your frame model number (printed on the inside arm or bridge) and your current prescription. If your frames are older or discontinued, some retailers may not stock the exact lens shape, so confirming availability before ordering saves time and frustration.
Key Takeaways
- Costa's official website and authorized dealers sell genuine replacement lenses that are may provide to fit your frame model.
- Independent optical labs can cut and install prescription or non-prescription lenses into Costa frames, often faster and cheaper than Costa direct.
- You will need your frame model number and your current prescription before ordering from any source.
- Authorized retailers include major chains like Costco Optical and LensCrafters, as well as independent optometrists and eyewear shops.
- Discontinued frame models may have limited lens availability, so call ahead to confirm your frame can be serviced.
Buying directly from Costa
Costa's official website (costadelmar.com) sells replacement lenses for most current frame models. You enter your frame model number, choose your lens type (polarized, non-polarized, or specialty coatings), and the lenses ship to you or to a local Costa retailer for fitting. Shipping typically takes five to ten business days, and fitting at a retailer adds another few days.
The advantage of buying from Costa direct is certainty — you know the lenses are genuine and will fit. The disadvantage is cost: Costa lenses are priced at the manufacturer's suggested retail price, which is higher than what independent labs charge. You also cannot customize the lens beyond Costa's standard options (for example, you cannot add a different tint or coating combination that Costa does not offer).
Authorized Costa retailers
Authorized dealers stock Costa replacement lenses and can often fit them the same day or within a few days. Major chains include Costco Optical, LensCrafters, and Sunglass Hut, as well as independent optometrists and eyewear boutiques. To find a retailer near you, use Costa's store locator on their website or call your local optical shop and ask if they carry Costa lenses.
Authorized retailers usually charge the same price as Costa direct, but they may offer discounts during sales or if you buy multiple pairs. The real advantage is speed and convenience — you can walk in, confirm your frame model, and order lenses without waiting for shipping. Some locations can fit lenses while you wait if they have your frame model in stock.
Independent optical labs
Independent lens labs can cut and install lenses into your Costa frames without going through Costa or an authorized dealer. Labs like Warby Parker Home Try-On, Zenni, and local optical labs will accept your Costa frames, measure them, and install new lenses. This route is often 30 to 50 percent cheaper than buying from Costa, and labs can offer lens options Costa does not stock — different tints, coatings, or materials.
The trade-off is that you are responsible for shipping your frames to the lab and back, which adds a week or more to the timeline. Labs also do not may provide the fit the way Costa does, though reputable labs will remake lenses at no charge if they do not fit correctly. Before sending frames to a lab, confirm they accept Costa frames and ask about their remake policy in writing.
What to have ready before you order
Your frame model number is printed on the inside of the arm or on the bridge of your frames — it looks like a short code, often with letters and numbers (for example, "6S9015"). If you cannot find it, take a photo of the inside of the frame and email it to Costa customer service or to the retailer you plan to order from; they can usually identify the model from the photo.
You will also need your current prescription, which your eye doctor can provide in writing or email to you. If your prescription is more than two years old, many retailers will ask you to get a new one before they order lenses. Have your pupillary distance (PD) on hand as well — this is the distance between your pupils, measured in millimeters. Your eye doctor can provide it, or you can measure it yourself at home using a ruler and a mirror, though a professional measurement is more accurate.
Pricing and timeline comparison
| Source | Typical Cost | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costa direct | $100–$200 per pair | 5–10 days shipping + fitting | Certainty and warranty |
| Authorized retailer | $100–$200 per pair | Same day to 5 days | Speed and in-person service |
| Independent lab | $50–$120 per pair | 7–14 days total | Cost savings and custom options |
Prices vary by lens type — polarized lenses cost more than non-polarized, and specialty coatings (anti-glare, blue-light filtering) add to the base price. Independent labs often charge less because they do not carry the Costa brand markup, but they may charge extra for rush shipping or complex prescriptions.
What to do if your frame model is discontinued
If your Costa frames are older or no longer in production, replacement lenses may not be available from Costa or authorized retailers. In this case, an independent optical lab is your best option — they can measure your frames and cut lenses to fit, even if the exact model is no longer made. Some labs specialize in fitting lenses into vintage or discontinued frames.
Before you assume your frames are discontinued, contact Costa customer service with your frame model number. They maintain records of older models and may still have lenses in stock or be able to direct you to a retailer that does. If Costa cannot help, call a few independent labs in your area and describe your frames; many will take on the job if the frame shape is standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use non-Costa lenses in my Costa frames?
Yes. Independent optical labs routinely cut and install third-party lenses into Costa frames. The lab will measure your frames and order or cut lenses to fit. This is often cheaper than buying Costa-branded lenses and gives you more customization options.
Do I need a prescription to buy Costa replacement lenses?
Only if you want prescription lenses. Costa also sells non-prescription replacement lenses (clear or tinted) for frames that originally came with them. You will still need your frame model number either way.
How long does it take to get replacement lenses fitted?
Authorized retailers can often fit lenses in one to five days if they have your frame model in stock. Costa direct and independent labs typically take five to fourteen days depending on shipping and whether the lenses need to be custom-cut.
What if the replacement lenses do not fit my frames?
Reputable retailers and labs will remake the lenses at no charge if they do not fit. Ask about the remake policy before you order, and keep your receipt. If you ordered from an independent lab, confirm their remake may provide in writing before sending your frames.
Can I order replacement lenses without my frame model number?
It is difficult. Retailers and labs need the model number to may support the lenses are cut to the correct shape and size. If you cannot find it on your frames, take a photo of the inside and email it to Costa customer service or to the retailer — they can usually identify the model from the photo.