The gift of sight is one of the most precious senses and eye exam is something that shouldn't be compromised at all cost.

A simple eye problem, if left untreated, could lead to more serious vision defects.

But is it really necessary to have your eyes checked every year? Well, prevention is still the mother of all cures.

The problem is, not everyone can afford to have regular eye exams. In a tight economy when the value of our dollars diminishes, the cost of eyeglasses, contact lenses, other eye care products become a burden to some low-income families.

The good news is, there are plenty of printable coupons online where you can use them for free eye exams or purchases of eyeglasses for a lot less.

With that said, here's a list of recommended places where you can possibly get an eye exam for free.

Wal-Mart Vision Center

Do you know that close to 6 millions people choose Wal-Mart Vision Center for eye care products?

With over 2,500 vision centers throughout the country, Wal-Mart is the preferred choice for eye exams. It offers one of the most comprehensive range of services to preserve your eye health and improve your vision at affordable prices.

It has a huge range of Walmart eyeglasses, contact lenses, frames to choose from and with free eye exams coupons from Wal-Mart, you can save money whenever possible.

It's not surprising that it has established its reputation as a center for those who are looking for cheap eye exams and free coupons.

Affordability has been and will always be the highlight of Walmart eye exam. While the fees at private practices could balloon to as much as $120 per eye exam, you can avail the same examination at Walmart for $45 - $50.

VISION USA™

If you're looking for free eye exam, try VISION USA™. It provides free eye exams to eligible, low-income working families who have no vision insurance.

Since 1991, more than 340,000 low-income working Americans have benefited from free eye exams through VISION USA™.

If you haven't had an eye exam for the last 2 years and uninsured, you might be eligible for a free comprehensive eye exam.

America's Best

Still one of the best deals I found online for both eyewear and eye care is America's Best with its unique program called Eye Care Club where you can get 5 FREE eye exams over the course of 3 or 5 years and huge discount on purchases of eyeglasses and contact lenses.

You can also get printable free eye exam coupons from 'Retail Me Not' where you can avail yourself with plenty of discount coupons in your area.

Sight for Students®

For parents with children who are struggling with the high cost of eyecare, Sight for Students® is definitely a great option for free eye exam.

Since its inception in 1997, thanks to Vision Service Plan (VSP), up to 50,000 eligible children every year receive a free comprehensive eye exam and free eyeglasses if necessary.

Protect Your Eyesight

Keeping your eyes healthy is important. Many, if not all, vision defects are preventable if diagnosed early. Yet many people ignore the importance of an annual eye exam.

If the cliche holds true, eyesight free of defects is wealth. So a regular eye exam is the best way to preserve your eyesight. It's something that's too priceless to put it off.