philgregg -

Most optical dispensaries (the places that actually sell glasses) will be "associated" or a least will have a favored "examiner" that they can refer you to.

Those who dispense "prescription" lenses are typically called "Opticians." In some states that's a licensed occupation, but in many states almost anyone who wants to can be one. If you're in a location where a license isn't required, you may be better off at a "national chain" outfit like Pearl or Lens Crafters, since you can hope that "corporate policies" will be consistent with the requirements where the practice is licensed - or not.

The majority of "eye exams," those intended only at determining what lens gives the appropriate "correction," are done by persons who are "Optometrists." This is almost always a licensed occupation, requiring some minimal training - and in a few places rather extensive training and examination.

In my area, a "simple refraction," i.e. an examination by an Optometrist, can cost you anywhere from about $35 (US) on up, but not usually more than $50 - $70.

People with some illnesses - the standard example is diabetes, although simple high blood pressure is also a risk factor - or those for whom an Optometrist has made a referal because of a "medical condition" found during examination (infection, high interocular pressure, or cataracts, perhaps?) - are generally advised to see an Ophthalmologist, who is a licensed medical practitioner (M.D.) specializing in the treatment of the eye. A visit to an Ophthalmologist will generally cost at least $75 to $90 in my area, and can run as much as $250 - for a routine examination, not including any treatment, but it usually gets you a prescription for lenses as part of the deal.

John