Is there a difference between a regular eye exam and a contact lens eye exam?

Eye exam: By contact lens exam, i would assume you mean a refractive check up. It will help determine whether you need contacts. However, a complete proper eye exam needs to be conducted by an ophthalmologist (an md) who can dilate your eyes and look at the actual lens and the back of the eye (retina). This should be an annual exam just like your annual physical.