Pupillary Distance (PD): What It Is & How to Measure


  • What is PD (Pupillary Distance)?

    PD, or Pupillary Distance, is the measurement in millimeters between the centers of your pupils. It’s a small number with a big impact—accurate PD ensures your prescription lenses are aligned for clear, comfortable vision.

  • Why Is PD Important for Your Glasses?

    Your PD is just as important as your prescription. If your lenses aren't centered correctly, you may notice eye strain or less-than-ideal clarity. That’s why Eydio always asks for your PD—so every pair fits you, not just your face, but your eyes too.

  • Typical PD Ranges for Women and Men

    For most adults, pupillary distance (PD) usually falls between 48 mm and 73 mm.

    • The average PD for women tends to be about 60 mm.
    • For men, the average is closer to 64 mm.

    Keep in mind—PD is highly individual, and yours might be a little smaller or larger. The most important thing is getting a measurement that’s right for you.

  • Single PD and Dual PD

    Your prescription may list PD as a single number or as two numbers:

    • Single PD is one measurement: the distance from the center of one pupil to the center of the other.
    • Dual PD gives two values—one for each eye—measuring from the center of each pupil to the center of your nose (right eye first).

    Dual PD is especially helpful for progressive or multifocal lenses, but either measurement helps us craft your perfect pair.

How to Measure Your PD at Home

While we always recommend having your PD measured by a professional for the most accurate results, you can also measure it yourself at home if needed. Here are two easy methods:

Method 1: Mirror & Ruler (or Eydio’s Printable PD Ruler)

What you’ll need:

  • A millimeter ruler (download our PD ruler or use any mm ruler)
  • A mirror

Steps:

  1. Stand in front of a mirror, holding the ruler flat against your brow.
  2. Close your right eye and align the “0” mark of the ruler with the center of your left pupil.
  3. Without shifting the ruler, open your right eye and close the left.
  4. Read the number directly over the center of your right pupil—this is your PD in millimeters!

Method 2: Glasses, Marker & Ruler

What you’ll need:

  • Glasses (any kind)
  • A washable marker
  • A millimeter ruler

Steps:

  1. Put on the glasses and look straight at a mirror.
  2. With one eye closed, mark a dot on the lens where your open pupil is centered.
  3. Switch eyes and repeat for the other lens.
  4. Take off the glasses and measure the distance between the two dots with your ruler—this is your PD.

Download Your Printable PD Ruler

Choose your paper size for accurate printing:

Set your printer to 100% scale for the best results.