Corrective eyewear contains prescription lenses ground to a specific optical power to correct vision. Protective eyewear—such as safety goggles or industrial face shields—is designed to shield the eyes from physical, chemical, or radiation hazards, regardless of whether it also incorporates corrective lenses. The primary design intent and lens specification are the key classification factors, and mixed-purpose products (e.g., prescription safety glasses) require careful review of the applicable tariff subheadings.

Prescription spectacles incorporating corrective lenses can be regulated as medical devices under FDA jurisdiction. Importers of finished corrective eyewear should verify whether their products require FDA establishment registration, device listing, or compliance with applicable performance standards before shipment, as non-compliant entries may be detained or refused admission.