How often does a male in his mid-thirties get his vision checked?

Depends on risks: You should have a thorough vision exam by a trained eye practitioner (optometrist or ophthalmologist) every 2-3 years before the age of 40, then every year or two after the age of 40. If you have diabetes, it should be an annual exam independent of age. A number of diseases can present/be found on a dilated eye exam. It's amazing how much information we can gain by looking in your eyes!

No set rules: If you have no visual issues, do not wear corrective lenses and have no family history of eye diseases (glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, etc.), there is no definite need for an eye exam. Having the eyes checked every few years is more than enough. If you have blurred vision, are diabetic or wear glasses, you should be seen every 1-2 years.

5-10 years: It depends on whether there are risk factors for eye disease such as diabetes, history of eye trauma, or family history of eye disease. The recommendation from the american academy of ophthalmology preferred practice pattern for a healthy individual in this age range is 5-10 years.