Free Eye Exam and Glasses Programs Near Me

Are you searching for a free eye exam near you? Visiting the eye doctor and getting a new pair of glasses can be costly, especially without vision insurance. As a result, many people choose to skip their annual eye exams and continue using outdated prescriptions.

However, there are numerous organizations and government programs that offer free eye care and glasses to those who qualify. This state-by-state guide is here to assist you in finding resources for free eye exam and glasses based on eligibility requirements in your area.

Why Free Eye Care is So Important?

Regular eye exams allow early detection and treatment to correct vision issues and maintain eye health. Vision problems left untreated can lead to permanent damage and even vision loss. It is also important to have an up-to-date eyeglasses prescription to ensure clear vision and safe performance of daily activities.

Unfortunately, the cost of vision care can make it difficult for many people to get the care they need. That’s why it’s important for organizations to offer free eye exam and glasses. These services are available to children, seniors, the unemployed, and the uninsured who may not have access to proper vision care.

Don’t let financial barriers prevent you from taking care of your eyes. Explore the options available in your area for free eye exam and glasses. This way, you can be sure your eyes are healthy without worrying about the cost.

Free Eye Exam From Charities and Government Programs

Many charities, non-profits, and government programs offer free eye exam for adults and children. Here are some available options to get a free eye exam.

VISION USA

If you are in need of a free eye exam but do not have insurance, VISION USA can help. This program provides free eye care to eligible low-income and uninsured individuals.

To apply, you can work with a charitable organization, social worker, case worker, or community health agency to submit an application.

Don’t let the cost of an eye exam prevent you from taking care of your vision. Contact VISION USA today to see if you qualify.

Telephone: 1-800-766-4466

Website: http://www.aoafoundation.org/vision-usa/.

EyeCare America: Free Eye Care for Seniors

EyeCare America is a highly reliable public service program that offers free eye care through a network of over 4,600 volunteer ophthalmologists.

The program serves eligible candidates aged 65 or older and people at increased risk for glaucoma.

Since 1985, the program has helped more than 2 million people access vision care.

EyeCare America offers two main programs:

Seniors Program: This program connects eligible seniors 65+ with local volunteer ophthalmologists who provide a medical eye exam, often at no cost, and follow-up care for one year for any condition diagnosed during the initial exam. To qualify you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Be age 65+
• Not belong to an HMO or have VA eye care benefits
• Not seen an ophthalmologist in 3+ years

Glaucoma Program: This program provides a free glaucoma eye exam to those at increased risk who are uninsured. Those with insurance have co-pays for the exam. It aims to provide baseline glaucoma screenings. You must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Not belong to an HMO or have VA eye care benefits
• Not had an eye exam in 12+ months
• Be at higher risk for glaucoma based on age, race, and family history.

Visit www.aao.org/eyecare-America or Call at: 1-877-887-6327 to see if you qualify for these programs that provide free eye care services to seniors in need.

Lions Clubs International

Lions Clubs International is a volunteer service organization with local clubs across the United States. Many local Lions clubs sponsor programs that help provide free eye exams and glasses to those in need.

Lions clubs may offer financial assistance for eye care costs, vision screenings, eyeglasses recycling programs, and other sight-related services. Eligibility and application details vary between individual club locations. Once you locate your nearby clubs, reach out to learn about their specific application process and programs to receive possible assistance with free eye exams and glasses.

With nearly 50,000 clubs worldwide, Lions Clubs International is dedicated to helping local communities thrive. Check the Lions Club online locator to connect with Lions groups near you that may provide grants and funding for essential eye care services.

Walmart Vision Center: Get Free Eye Check-Ups

Walmart Vision Centers provide eye exams, glasses, and contacts at affordable prices. They offer ways to receive a free eye exam with the following options:

• Age 50+ Eye Exam: Customers age 50 or older can receive one no-cost eye exam per year with a dilated retinal screening.
• Walmart Free Eye Exam Coupon: Occasional promotions provide free exam coupons to use at their vision centers. Check their website for availability.
• Insurance Coverage: Eye exams are fully covered once per year for children and some adults with VSP insurance. Walmart accepts most major vision plans.
• Community Programs: Ask your local Vision Center if they participate in any community initiatives providing free eye check-ups to qualifying individuals.

Take advantage of these opportunities to receive free eye health exams at your neighborhood Walmart Vision Center. Annual eye check-up helps detect issues early, especially for seniors.

America’s Best: Free Eye Exams with Purchase

America’s Best frequently runs a promotion for two pairs of eyeglasses for $69.95, which includes a free eye exam (a $59 value). This is an ideal way to receive a comprehensive eye health checkup while purchasing new prescription glasses or sunglasses at a discount.

Take advantage of this offer to keep your eye prescription up-to-date and obtain eyewear for less than $40 per pair. Schedule your free exam when purchasing two pairs for maximum savings on both vision screening and correction.

Medicare

Medicare provides coverage for eye exams that check for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy for beneficiaries at risk:

• For people with diabetes, Medicare covers a yearly dilated eye exam to check for diabetic retinopathy. Doctors determine exam frequency based on each patient’s needs.
• For people at high risk for glaucoma, Medicare covers an annual glaucoma screening eye exam. Those considered high risk include people with diabetes, family history of glaucoma, African Americans age 50+, and Hispanic Americans 65+.
• For the screening exams, patients must pay 20% of the Medicare-approved cost after meeting their yearly Part B deductible.
• Routine eye exams are not covered under standard Medicare.

To learn more about Medicare’s coverage of vision services, call: (1-800-633-4227) or visit www.medicare.gov. Take advantage of covered eye exams that can help detect glaucoma and diabetes related eye conditions.

Medicaid and CHIP: Free or Low-Cost Eye Care for Kids

Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide free or low-cost health coverage to eligible children, teens up to age 19, and other qualifying family members. These public insurance programs, which may go by different names in your state, cover comprehensive pediatric eye care including exams, glasses, and other vision services.

To apply for Medicaid and CHIP, visit your state health department’s website or go to www.insurekidsnow.gov. You can find details on eligibility, covered services, and how to get vision benefits for your child in your state. Most states provide wide-ranging eye care for children at no cost through these programs.

Apart from exams, Medicaid and CHIP generally provide coverage for prescription glasses, contact lenses (if medically required), eye patches and drops, vision therapy, and other essential services. Utilizing the free or affordable children’s vision coverage can guarantee access to the eye care necessary for healthy development.

Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides comprehensive health insurance that includes coverage for vision care. Under the ACA, Marketplace insurance plans must include vision coverage for both children and adults as an essential health benefit.

ACA vision benefits typically cover a routine eye exam each year and all or part of the costs for prescription glasses and contact lenses. More extensive coverage may be included for the treatment of vision conditions like cataracts or keratoconus.

Enroll in a health plan during annual open enrollment periods to access vision coverage through the ACA. Visit www.healthcare.gov to browse and compare plans available in your state, check if you qualify for savings to reduce premiums, and apply for coverage.

Organizations That Provide Free Eyeglasses

If you need glasses but have trouble affording them, the following resources can help pay for prescription glasses.

New Eyes: Get free eyeglasses voucher

New Eyes is a charitable organization that has provided free prescription eyeglasses to over 10 million people in the United States since 1932. Their U.S. New Eyeglasses Program assists low-income individuals who need glasses but cannot afford them.

New Eyes provides free eyeglasses vouchers through their website. Only social service agencies can submit applications on behalf of individuals.

Each year, New Eyes purchases thousands of new prescription eyeglasses for children and adults in the United States who cannot afford glasses on their own.

Contact New Eyes at 973-376-4903 or visit their website new-eyes.org to learn more about their application process and how to qualify for a free pair of prescription eyeglasses if you are in financial need.

OneSight

OneSight is operated under LensCrafters. OneSight partners with governments, NGOs, and organizations to provide free eye exam and prescription glasses to those most in need. They work to establish sustainable local vision care programs, build vision centers, and raise awareness of vision issues among communities

Since 2013, OneSight has provided over 656 million people access to sustainable vision care through establishing nearly 25,000 sustainable access points and 228 vision centers globally. Combined with their philanthropic efforts, OneSight has helped correct or protect the vision of 65 million people.

In the U.S., OneSight operates free vision clinics focused on serving uninsured, low-income groups. Visit www.onesight.org to see if you qualify for their assistance.

Sight for Students: Free Eye Care Children

Sight for Students is a program administered by Vision Service Plan (VSP) that provides free eye exam and glasses to children in need. It serves low-income and uninsured youth 18 years and under whose families meet the eligibility requirements.

• To qualify for Sight for Students, a child’s family must have an income below 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
• Families must apply through a participating eye doctor’s office or community outreach program.
• Approved children receive a comprehensive eye exam and one pair of glasses at no cost.

The program aims to ensure all children can obtain the vision care essential to their learning and development. VSP partners with schools and Head Start programs to identify kids who need services. To find participating locations and learn how to apply, contact Sight for Students at 1-888-290-4964 or visit their website www.sightforstudents.org.

Eyes of Hope: Help with Eye Exams and Glasses

Eyes of Hope is a program administered by Vision Service Plan (VSP) that provides access to eye care and glasses through three assistance options:

• Eyes of Hope Full Coverage: For individuals needing a no-cost eye exam and glasses. This serves those who are uninsured and cannot afford care.
• Eyes of Hope Materials: For insured individuals whose coverage does not include glasses. It provides just the materials/lenses.
• Eyes of Hope Disaster Relief: For victims of disasters needing replacement eyeglasses. It offers free exams and glasses.

All versions of Eyes of Hope aim to make vision care accessible by eliminating cost barriers. They are designed for people in financial need and those impacted by emergencies. To learn more and find out if you qualify for this VSP assistance program, visit www.vspglobal.com/eyes-of-hope.

InfantSEE: Free Eye Exam for Babies

InfantSEE provides free comprehensive eye exams for infants at 6-12 months old. It is a public health program operated by Optometry Cares and the American Optometric Association (AOA).

The goal of InfantSEE is to ensure early detection of vision issues and eye health in babies during critical developmental stages. Any infant 6-12 months old receives a one-time free evaluation regardless of family income or insurance coverage.

In addition, participating optometrists recommend follow-up exams at age 3, before starting school, and annually after. But the initial InfantSEE exam from 6-12 months is at no cost for all babies.

Find InfantSEE providers in your state by searching on their website www.infantsee.org. Take advantage of this program to promote lifelong vision health for your child from an early age.

Essilor Vision Foundation: Free Children’s Eye Care

The Essilor Vision Foundation strives to give children a brighter future by improving their vision. They provide free vision screenings, eye exams, and prescription glasses to underserved youth nationwide.

Since 2007, the Essilor Vision Foundation has supplied over 1 million pairs of glasses to children in financial need. They partner with schools and community organizations to identify kids who need services and hold vision care events.

Check the Essilor Vision Foundation’s website at www.evfusa.org to see if they have an upcoming children’s vision event in your community. Providing your child access to their free eye exam and glasses can set them up for a lifetime of healthy vision.

State-by-State list to Find Free or Affordable Eye Care

Below you will find a state-by-state listing of organizations, associations, and clinics that offer free or discounted eye exams and prescription glasses.

Alabama

• UAB School of Optometry provides exams and eyewear for those in financial need on a case-by-case basis. Learn more at www.uab.edu/optometry or call (205) 934-3036.

Alaska

• Lion’s Clubs support vision care through programs like Eyeglass Recycling Center of Anchorage. Call (907) 277-0896.
• Alaska Blind Child Discovery provides free vision care for children ages 0-21.

Arizona

• Arizona Lions Vision Center provides eye exams and glasses to Arizona residents in need. Call (602)267-7573.
• Salvation Army Southern Arizona offers voucher program for exams and glasses. Call (520) 795-6971.

Arkansas

• Jones Eye Clinic offers exams to residents of Northwest Arkansas regardless of insurance status. Call (479) 750-9393.
• Arkansas Children’s Hospital provides free exams and glasses for children through See Kids Soar program. Call (501) 364-4027.

California

• UCLA Mobile Eye Clinic provides free exams in underserved areas. Learn more at eye.ucla.edu/mobile-eye-clinic or call (310) 794-9770.
• FQHC clinics like Venice Family Clinic offer free or low cost vision services based on income. Search for clinics at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

Colorado

• Colorado Optometric Association offers a low-cost Exam Only option at $45. Learn more at https://colorado.aoa.org/
• Peak Vista Community Health Centers serve uninsured/underserved patients on a sliding fee scale. Call (719) 632-5700.

Connecticut

• Connecticut Association of Optometrists members provide reduced fee exams and eyeglasses. Call (860) 529-1900 to find participating optometrists.
• Husky Health covers complete vision care for Medicaid patients of all ages.

Delaware

• Delaware Lions provide vouchers for free exams and glasses to low-income state residents.
• Westside Family Healthcare offers a sliding fee scale for exams and glasses based on income. Make an appointment by calling (302) 224-6800.

Florida

• Florida Heiken Program provides vision care to qualified children and adults. Call Miami Lighthouse for the Blind at (305) 856-9830 or (888) 996-9847.
• Florida Department of Health offers free exams and glasses to children through the School Children’s Vision Program. Call (407) 475-3700.

Georgia

• The Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation offers eye exams and glasses. Eligibility varies by location. Call (866) 330-2020 or visit galionslighthouse.org.
• Georgia The Eye Sight Foundation provides free surgery to correct vision disorders for residents. Call (478) 477-7066.

Hawaii

• Association for the Blind provides free vision services. Call (808) 522-4250 on Oahu or (808) 244-3117 on neighbor islands.
• Kauai Community Health Improvement Fund gives vouchers for exams, lenses and frames for children 18 and under. Call (808) 240-0132.

Idaho

• Community Health Clinics provides exams, testing, and glasses to low income patients on a sliding fee scale. Find a location at chcidaho.org or call (208) 215-6200.
• Envision Sight & Hearing Foundation offers financial assistance. Apply at www.envisionsight.org or call (208) 344-5052.

Illinois

• Illinois College of Optometry Clinic offers comprehensive eye exams on a sliding fee scale based on income. Call to schedule an appointment at (312) 949-7441.
• McLean County Health Department Eye Care Program provides exams and glasses to residents with qualifying medical needs and financial eligibility. Call (309) 888-5289.

Indiana

• Vision First Indiana coordinates with local providers to offer free exams and glasses. call (800) 843-2020 to ask for eligibility.
• School Kids Vision Program provides eye care for students of families meeting income requirements. Contact your local school district.

Iowa

• EveryStep Iowa Health and Wellness Clinic provides free eye exam for children and teens up to age 19. Call (515) 243-4902 to schedule.
• Washington Free Clinic offers free vision services including exams and treatment. Call (319) 653-5189.

Kansas

• Kansas Elks Association provides vouchers to cover the cost of exams and standard glasses for children 17 and under.
• Vision Care Outreach offers exams, treatment, and glasses to uninsured and low-income patients. Call (316) 440-2300.

Kentucky

• University of Kentucky Department of Ophthalmology provides eye exams regardless of income or insurance. Call (859) 323-5867.
• Kentucky Vision Project has optometrists across KY providing free exams and glasses to those in need.

Louisiana

• Healthcare for the Homeless provides free basic vision care through mobile clinic sites.
• Louisiana Lions provide financial assistance for exams, surgery, glasses, and medication. Call toll free (866) 926-6006.

Maine

• Maine Community Health Options covers routine eye exams with participating providers for members. Call (855) 624-6463 to find options.
• Healthy Eyes for Peak Performance offers free exams and glasses for schoolchildren. Call participating provider locations to schedule.

Maryland

• Maryland Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons provides financial grants and donated services. Call (410) 433-6400.
• HealthWell Foundation provides financial assistance for eye care. Check eligibility by calling (800) 675-8416.

Massachusetts

• The Caring Health Center provides exams using a sliding fee scale starting at $45 for uninsured patients. Call (413) 650-2042.
• Massachusetts Society of Optometrists members offer discounted services. Ask providers to accept MassSAVE vouchers.

Michigan

• The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center offers exams and discounts based on financial eligibility. Call (734) 764-5176.
• Cherry Health provides sliding-scale cost vision care to qualifying Kent County residents. Call (616) 965-8347.

Minnesota

• Minnesota Lions Vision Foundation offers financial assistance for exams and eyewear. Call (952) 548-6100 to check eligibility .
• UCare offers a free eye exam each year and glasses for members under age 21.

Mississippi

• Vision First Eye Institute provides exams for $40 and lenses starting at $30. Receive discounts with county services vouchers. Call (601) 991-9340
• Lions Clubs of Mississippi support vision health through Sight Programs. Local clubs assist with costs related to eye care needs.

Missouri

• EyeCare America provides referrals for seniors 65+ to receive a free medical eye exam. Call (800) 222-3937.
• Kansas City Community Health Council assists children, families, and seniors pay for eye exams and glasses. Call (816) 513-7110.

Montana

• Montana Optometric Association offers vouchers for Vision USA providing a free exam. Check eligibility at www.visionusa.org.
• Healthy Montana Kids CHIP covers children’s vision benefits including a free annual eye exam.

Nebraska

• University of Nebraska Medical Center provides eye care on sliding fee scale based on income. Call (402) 559-2020.
• Nebraska Foundation for Vision Awareness offers grants for eye exams and glasses. Income limits apply. Call 402-390-3937.

Nevada

• Nevada Health Center offers discounted vision services. Call (702) 759-0958 to schedule Las Vegas or Reno clinics.
• Southern Nevada Health District Eye Clinic provides exams and vouchers for glasses to residents in need. Call (702) 759-0958.

New Hampshire

• Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic provides free eye exam for kids through age 7 and reduced cost care up to age 18. Call (603) 553-2020.
• Lions of New Hampshire collect used glasses and provide financial assistance for eye care. Request help by calling (603) 472-5432.

New Jersey

• New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians offers discounted exams and glasses. Patients must have no insurance and meet income limits. Call (908) 234-6454.
• Montclair State University Eye Clinic offers low-cost vision services and accepts Medicaid. Call (973) 655-7254.

New Mexico

• New Mexico Lions Operation KidSight offers eye screenings for children 6 months to 6 years old. Schedule an appointment by calling 877-705-KIDS.
• University of New Mexico Hospitals Carrie Tingley Hospital provides free vision care for uninsured children under 21. Call (505) 272-8737 or (877) 311-5437 toll free.

New York

• SUNY College of Optometry Eye Care Center offers care on a sliding fee scale based on income. Call (212) 938-4000.
• Helen Keller Services for the Blind offers free vision screenings. Call (888) 625-4637.

North Carolina

• Duke Eye Center’s Pediatric Ophthalmology Clinic provides discounted care for children under 18. Call (919) 684-5736.
• UNC Hospitals Hillsborough Campus offers a sliding fee scale for eye services up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Call (919) 445-3350.

North Dakota

• Dakota Medical Foundation gives vision-related grants up to $3,000 per individual.
• Mandan Refinery Children’s Vision Program provides free exams and glasses for kids 18 and under that qualify. Call (701) 663-6500.

Ohio

• Ohio Optometric Association provides exams for $65 for the uninsured through EyeCare America. Call (800) 365-2219 extension 150.
• Cleveland Sight Center offers sliding scale fees for vision services to make care affordable. Call (216) 781-3315.

Oklahoma

• Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians offers discounted eye exams for $50 to uninsured patients. Call (405) 530-1393.
• RxOptical mobile clinic travels the state providing free vision exams and glasses to underserved school kids.

Oregon

• Casey Eye Institute offers reduced cost vision services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Call (503) 494-8881.
• Lions Club of Oregon fund screening clinics to provide free vision evaluations and glasses for children 18 and under regardless of family income. Check local clubs for upcoming screenings.

Pennsylvania

• The Pennsylvania College of Optometry Clinic offers comprehensive exams on a sliding fee scale. Call (215) 276-6070.
• Pennsylvania Association for the Blind may assist with exam fees and glasses. Eligibility and application at www.pablind.org or call (845) 612-2166.

Rhode Island

• Prevent Blindness Northern New England offers specialized pediatric vision care coordination. Call (401) 751-5660.
• Rhode Island Free Clinic provides free eye exam, minor treatments, and vouchers for glasses to uninsured residents. Call (401) 274-6347.

South Carolina

• Sharing God’s Love offers free vision exams and glasses to residents in 18 counties. Call (843) 390-8440.
• Vision Zero provides free eye screenings for children 6-18 years old statewide. Call (803) 419-0708.

South Dakota

• Eyecare America facilitates free medical eye exams for eligible seniors 65+. Call (800) 222-3937 to find participating doctors.
• South Dakota Lions provide applications for financial assistance with exams, glasses, and eye surgeries. Call (605) 361-2281.

Tennessee

• Tennessee Lions Eye Center gives free exams and eyewear to Tennessee residents in 31 counties. Call (423) 639-5792.
• Healthier Tennessee offers a vision voucher program for exams, lenses, frames and contacts. Call (615) 532-4307 to check eligibility .

Texas

• Texas Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center offers free glasses to US Veterans and low-income individuals. Call (713) 779-4795.
• Dallas County Health and Human Services provides vision care services to qualifying residents. Call (214) 819-1848.

Utah

• University of Utah Health Eye Care offers exam vouchers and discounted services for low-income patients. Check eligibility at healthcare.utah.edu.
• Bear River Health Department provides comprehensive vision coverage for children and pregnant women eligible for public programs. Apply at brhd.org.

Vermont

• Vermont Association of Eye Physicians and Surgeons partner with hospitals to provide care regardless of ability to pay. Call (802) 223-2020.
• Prevent Blindness Northern New England helps Vermont residents access discounted exams and glasses. Call (802) 847-3140.

Virginia

• Local Lions Club programs partner with eye doctors to provide exams and glasses.
• Virginia Department of Health contracts with local health districts to diagnose and treat eye conditions for eligible children and adults. Call your district office.

Washington

• Seattle Children’s Hospital covers eye exams for Medicaid patients under age 19. Also offers financial assistance based on income. Call (206) 987-2000.
• Rural Health Clinics provide sliding scale fees for exams and glasses. Find clinics at https://doh.wa.gov/

West Virginia

• West Virginia Health Right Free Clinic offers free exams, treatment, and glasses to the uninsured.
• The Sight Foundation provides vision care funding for children under 18.

Wisconsin

• UW Health Eye Clinic offers exams to Wisconsin residents on a sliding fee scale based on income and family size. Call (608) 263-2020.
• Donated Vision Services provides free cataract surgery to those in need. Check eligibility by calling at (920) 882-3680.

Wyoming

• WyCares assists residents who are uninsured and underinsured. The vision program includes an annual eye exam and new glasses every other year. Call (307) 266-6123 to learn more.
• Wyoming Lions provide applications for financial assistance with exams, glasses, and eye surgeries. Call (307) 634-2797.

Conclusion

It is important to maintain vision health by finding free eye exam programs near you, especially if you are uninsured or underinsured. Regular eye check ups can detect issues early and allow for prompt treatment to prevent vision loss. For children, exams ensure proper vision development and identify needs for glasses or other intervention.

This guide provides numerous resources available in communities nationwide to access free eye care. From charitable organizations that supply exams and glasses, to government programs providing coverage for those who qualify, there are options to find assistance based on your situation. To find possible programs for free vision services in your area, you can contact local clinics, health departments, churches, libraries, schools, and more.

Do not let the lack of insurance or limited means prevent you from receiving essential eye exams and glasses. Utilize this state-by-state listing of free and reduced-cost eye care programs to find a provider that can meet your vision needs. Healthy eyes and clear vision start with regular exams, regardless of your ability to pay.

FAQs about Free Eye Examination