Eyemart Express operates as a walk-in optical retailer focused on same-day eyewear fulfillment. This guide covers what to expect from the chain in Oklahoma City, how it compares to other rapid-service options in the area, and whether it makes sense for your vision correction needs.
Eyemart Express functions differently from traditional optometry practices. The chain does not employ on-site optometrists or conduct eye exams. You must arrive with a valid prescription from an independent eye doctor, typically dated within the last two years for glasses or one year for contacts. The company then uses that prescription to manufacture and fit eyewear, often completing the process within hours rather than days.
This model creates a clear trade-off: speed and competitive pricing in exchange for no diagnostic services. If you need an exam, you must schedule that separately with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Eyemart Express maintains at least one location in the Oklahoma City metro area, though the exact address and current hours should be verified by calling or visiting their website directly, as retail locations occasionally relocate or adjust schedules seasonally. The chain typically operates extended hours including evenings and Saturdays, accommodating working adults who cannot visit during standard business hours.
Walmart Vision Centers operate in multiple Oklahoma City locations, including the Supercenter on Northwest Expressway and stores in Edmond and Norman. These centers employ optometrists and can conduct exams on-site, then fill prescriptions the same day or next day. Exam fees typically run $60 to $90 depending on whether you purchase frames and lenses from Walmart or bring an outside prescription. Walmart's in-house frames start around $50 to $150 for basic styles, and single-vision lenses add $40 to $80. The advantage here is the combined exam and fulfillment under one roof; the trade-off is that their frame selection leans heavily toward budget and mid-market options.
Pearle Vision locations in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas (Edmond, Midwest City) also offer same-day or next-day service. They employ optometrists, so exams can happen on-site. Frame pricing typically ranges from $80 to $250 for brand names like Ray-Ban or Coach. Lenses add $80 to $200 for standard single-vision. Pearle Vision operates a loyalty program that discounts subsequent purchases, which matters if you replace eyewear frequently.
VSP and EyeMed in-network providers may offer faster turnaround if you carry one of these vision insurance plans. Several independent optometry practices throughout Oklahoma City participate in these networks. The catch is that in-network pricing and speed vary widely depending on the individual provider and their current workload.
LensCrafters locations in the Penn Square Mall area and Edmond provide one-hour service for standard prescriptions. They employ optometrists and offer a broad range of premium frames (Oakley, Prada, Coach, Gucci). Expect to pay $150 to $400+ for frames and $100 to $250 for lenses, depending on lens type. Their one-hour service applies during business hours and assumes the prescription is straightforward (single vision, standard power ranges); complex prescriptions may take longer.
The most critical factor is that you must have a current prescription in hand. If you wear glasses or contacts but have not seen an eye doctor within the required timeframe, Eyemart Express cannot help you. Many people who choose Eyemart Express do so because they already have a valid prescription and simply need affordable, quick replacement eyewear.
Prescriptions from your optometrist in Oklahoma City are portable. You can take a script from Edmond Eye Care, an independent practice, or a hospital-based clinic and use it at Eyemart Express, Walmart, or any other retailer. Some eye doctors charge a small fee (typically $10 to $15) to print your prescription if you did not purchase from them, so ask before you leave the exam.
Eyemart Express carries a limited frame selection, usually 200 to 400 styles at any given time, compared to 1,000+ at LensCrafters or independent boutique practices. The frames tend to emphasize current mainstream styles at lower price points ($30 to $100). If you have specific brand preferences or need specialty frames (extra-large, extra-small, or high-fashion), you will have fewer choices.
Lens options matter equally. Standard single-vision plastic lenses are the baseline. Progressive (no-line bifocals) lenses cost more. Specialty coatings like anti-reflective, blue-light filtering, or photochromic (transition) lenses add $20 to $80 per pair depending on the retailer. At Eyemart Express, these add-ons are available but pricing should be confirmed at the point of sale.
If you wear contacts, Eyemart Express can fill prescriptions in many common brands: Acuvue, Bausch + Lomb, Alcon, Cooper Vision, and others. Pricing for a box of daily disposables typically ranges from $30 to $60 per box depending on brand and power. Unlike glasses, contact lens prescriptions require fitting measurements that should have been performed by your eye doctor; Eyemart Express does not conduct these fittings. If you have never worn contacts or are switching brands, visit your optometrist first.
VSP (Vision Service Plan) and EyeMed are accepted at many Eyemart Express locations, though coverage varies. Medicaid does not typically cover Eyemart Express in Oklahoma. Some employers offer vision insurance discounts with specific chains; check your plan documents before assuming where you will save the most money.
Choose Eyemart Express if you have a current prescription, want to minimize cost, and need eyewear within hours. The typical scenario: your glasses break on a Tuesday, your optometrist is in Edmond, and you need to wear something by Wednesday morning.
Choose Walmart Vision or Pearle Vision if you need an exam and eyewear on the same trip, or if you want more flexibility in frame selection than Eyemart Express typically offers.
Choose LensCrafters if you want the fastest possible service (one hour), prefer premium or designer frames, and are prepared to pay accordingly.
If you do not have a current prescription, locate an optometrist near your workplace or home first. Call ahead to ask about exam availability and whether they allow outside prescriptions to be filled elsewhere, then plan accordingly.
