Top 10 Optometric Technician Certifications

Certifications for optometric technicians are important in the job market because they demonstrate that a technician has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job properly. Certification also provides employers with assurance that a technician has been trained properly and is qualified to work in their practice. Certifications can also make a technician more attractive to potential employers, as certifications demonstrate that a technician is knowledgeable about the latest advances in optometric technology and treatments. Finally, certifications can give technicians an advantage over those without certification when competing for optometric positions.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Optometric Technicians and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Optometric Technician Certifications?

Optometric technician certification is a credential given to individuals who have successfully completed an accredited optometric technician program. The certification is awarded by the American Optometric Association (AOA) and demonstrates that the individual has obtained the necessary training and knowledge to work in an optometry practice. This certification can help optometric technicians advance their careers, as it is a professional designation that employers look for when hiring. It also provides reassurance to patients that the optometric technician they are working with has undergone rigorous training and has achieved a high level of competency in providing quality eye care services. Additionally, having this certification can open up more job opportunities for those interested in working in the field of optometry, as employers may be more willing to hire someone who has been certified by the AOA.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for optometric technician certification in your state before beginning the process. Depending on the state, certifications may require a specific number of hours of training or a certain amount of experience. Additionally, some states may require applicants to pass an exam in order to become certified.

Related: What does an Optometric Technician do?

Top 10 Optometric Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Optometric Technicians today.

1. Certified Optometric Technician (COT)

Certified Optometric Technician (COT) is a certification program designed to recognize the professional achievements of optometric technicians. The COT certification is offered by the American Optometric Association (AOA) and is recognized as the gold standard for optometric technicians.

The COT program consists of a comprehensive exam that tests a technician’s knowledge in areas such as patient care, ocular health, contact lenses, and more. The exam covers both theoretical and practical aspects of optometry. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The COT program takes approximately 6 months to complete, depending on how much time an individual has to dedicate to studying for the exam. It is recommended that applicants have at least one year of experience working in an optometry office before taking the exam.

To get started with the COT program, applicants must first submit an application form along with all required documents and fees to the AOA. Once approved, they will receive study materials and instructions on how to prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Optometric Technician varies depending on whether you are a member of the AOA or not. For non-members, it costs $395 for the application fee plus $225 for each module taken. For AOA members, it costs $295 for the application fee plus $175 for each module taken.

2. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

A Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a professional who has been trained to provide eye care services under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. The COA assists in performing diagnostic tests, taking patient histories, and educating patients about their eye health. They may also help with contact lens fittings and other procedures.

The certification process for becoming a COA requires passing an exam administered by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). This exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of the eye, ocular pathology, instrumentation, and pharmacology. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have completed a minimum of three months of full-time experience as an ophthalmic assistant or technician within the past two years.

The cost for taking the COA exam is $295 for JCAHPO members and $395 for non-members. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center around the country. It typically takes four hours to complete the exam, which consists of 200 multiple-choice questions.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official COA certification from JCAHPO. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed by taking another examination or completing continuing education courses approved by JCAHPO.

3. Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT)

A Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) is a professional who has been trained to assist an optometrist in providing eye care services. The CPOT certification is awarded by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies in paraoptometric technology.

The certification process typically takes three to four months to complete. To obtain the CPOT certification, applicants must first successfully pass the ABO/NCLE Paraoptometric Certification Examination. This exam consists of two parts: a written multiple-choice exam and a practical performance evaluation. After passing the exam, applicants must also complete an approved paraoptometric training program or demonstrate equivalent experience in order to receive their certificate.

The cost for taking the ABO/NCLE Paraoptometric Certification Examination varies depending on whether you are taking it for the first time or retaking it. The initial fee for taking the exam is $175, while retaking it costs $125. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with completing an approved paraoptometric training program or demonstrating equivalent experience in order to receive your certificate.

4. Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT)

A Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) is a professional who has achieved certification through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). The COMT credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in ophthalmic medical technology.

The COMT certification process requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, optics, ocular pharmacology, ocular pathology, and instrumentation. In addition to the exam, applicants must also complete an approved training program and demonstrate two years of full-time clinical experience.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the COMT exam. Preparation may include studying textbooks, attending lectures or workshops, completing online courses or webinars, and taking practice exams.

To become certified as a COMT, applicants must first submit an application to JCAHPO along with the required fees. Once the application is approved, applicants will be sent an authorization letter that includes instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 75% or higher, applicants will receive their official certificate from JCAHPO.

The cost of becoming certified as a COMT varies depending on which preparation materials are used and whether any additional fees are incurred during the application process. In general, however, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD to become certified as a COMT.

5. National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE)

National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) is a certification program for optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other professionals in the contact lens field. The NCLE is administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO). It is designed to ensure that those who provide contact lens services have the necessary knowledge and skills to do so safely and effectively.

The NCLE exam consists of two parts: a written examination and a practical demonstration. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, optics, contact lenses, patient assessment and management, and clinical practice guidelines. The practical portion involves fitting contact lenses on patients under simulated conditions.

The NCLE exam takes approximately four hours to complete. It can be taken at any NBEO-approved testing center or at an approved optometric institution.

The cost of the NCLE exam varies depending on the location where it is taken. Generally, it costs between $400-$600 USD for both parts of the exam.

6. American Board of Opticianry and Dispensing Opticians (ABO-DO)

The American Board of Opticianry and Dispensing Opticians (ABO-DO) is a professional certification program designed to recognize excellence in the field of opticianry. The ABO-DO certification is offered by the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE), an independent organization that provides professional certifications for those working in the eye care industry.

In order to obtain ABO-DO certification, applicants must first meet certain prerequisites including having at least two years of experience as a licensed optician or dispensing optician and passing both written and practical examinations. The written exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering topics such as optics, contact lenses, frame selection, lens fitting, and patient education. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their skills in areas such as frame selection, lens fitting, and patient communication.

The entire process typically takes between three and six months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level and availability for testing. Applicants must also pay a fee for each part of the exam which can range from $150-$500 depending on the specific tests taken.

Once certified, ABO-DO holders are recognized as having achieved a high standard of knowledge and skill in their field. This certification can help individuals stand out from other job seekers when applying for positions within the eye care industry. It can also provide employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in the field.

7. Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT)

Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) is a professional certification for occupational therapists, optometrists, and ophthalmologists who specialize in helping people with low vision. It is awarded by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP). The CLVT credential demonstrates that an individual has met the highest standards of practice in the field of low vision rehabilitation.

To become certified as a CLVT, individuals must have completed a minimum of 200 hours of supervised clinical experience in low vision rehabilitation, including at least 50 hours of direct patient care. They must also pass an examination administered by ACVREP that tests their knowledge and skills related to low vision rehabilitation.

The cost to become certified as a CLVT varies depending on the individual's current credentials and experience level. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,500 or more. The process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete.

8. Certified Orthoptic Technician (COTs)

Certified Orthoptic Technician (COTs) are health care professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of vision-related disorders. They work with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other eye care professionals to provide comprehensive eye care to patients. COTs are responsible for performing a variety of tasks such as measuring visual acuity, assessing binocular vision, administering medications, and providing patient education.

To become a Certified Orthoptic Technician (COT), an individual must complete a minimum of two years of formal orthoptic training or have at least three years of experience in the field. The training program must be approved by the American Association of Orthoptics (AAO). After completing the training program, individuals must pass a certification exam administered by the AAO.

The cost for becoming a COT varies depending on the type of training program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more to become certified. Additionally, individuals may need to pay for travel expenses associated with attending conferences or workshops related to their profession.

Once certified as a COT, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements every two years. This typically involves attending conferences or workshops related to their profession and/or taking online courses offered by the AAO or other organizations.

9. National Academy of Opticianry Certification Program (NAOCP)

The National Academy of Opticianry Certification Program (NAOCP) is a voluntary certification program for opticians. It is designed to recognize opticians who have achieved a high level of professional competence and experience in the field of opticianry. The NAOCP is administered by the American Board of Optometry (ABO).

To become certified, an optician must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of the profession, including optics, contact lenses, eyeglass frames, and other related topics. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of the eye, optical principles, frame selection and fitting techniques, contact lens fitting techniques, ocular diseases and disorders, patient education and communication skills. The oral practical portion tests the optician's ability to identify visual defects in patients' eyes using various instruments.

The process to obtain certification typically takes several months to complete. First, the optician must submit an application along with proof of their current licensure status. Once accepted into the program, they will need to take a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of opticianry. After passing the exam they will be awarded their certification from ABO.

The cost for certification varies depending on where you live and how long it takes you to complete the process. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on your location and how much study time you need for preparation for the exam.

10. American Board of Certification in Medical Technology and Clinical Laboratory Science (ABCMT/CLS).

The American Board of Certification in Medical Technology and Clinical Laboratory Science (ABCMT/CLS) is a voluntary certification program that provides recognition to individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of medical technology and clinical laboratory science. It is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field.

The ABCMT/CLS certification process typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience and education level. The first step is to submit an application, which includes information about your educational background, work experience, and any other relevant qualifications. After submitting the application, applicants must take a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as laboratory safety, quality assurance, instrumentation and techniques, specimen collection and handling, data analysis, and more. Once the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will receive their ABCMT/CLS certification.

The cost for obtaining the ABCMT/CLS certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$600 for initial certification fees plus additional fees for recertification every two years.

Overall, obtaining ABCMT/CLS certification is an excellent way to demonstrate one’s knowledge and skills in medical technology and clinical laboratory science. It is also a great way to show employers that you are dedicated to your profession and are committed to providing quality care to patients.

Do You Really Need a Optometric Technician Certificate?

No, you do not need an optometric technician certificate to work in the field of optometry. However, having a certificate can be beneficial and can give you an edge when applying for jobs. It shows that you have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to optometry, which makes you more attractive to potential employers. Plus, it can open up new opportunities by increasing your marketability and helping you stand out from other applicants.

Having a certificate may also give you access to higher-paying jobs as well as better job security. Employers are often looking for certified technicians who can offer expertise and training in specific areas of optometry. A certificate proves that you have what it takes to provide clients with quality service, thus making you an asset to any organization or practice.

Overall, obtaining an optometric technician certificate is not necessary but can be beneficial in many ways. It offers advantages such as increased job prospects, higher pay and job security that may otherwise be difficult to obtain without certification. Therefore, if you’re interested in working in the field of optometry, obtaining a certificate could be worth considering.

Related: Optometric Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Optometric Technician Certifications

Q1. What is an Optometric Technician Certification?

A1. An Optometric Technician Certification is a credential that certifies the knowledge and skills of individuals who work in optometry offices to assist with eye examinations and related duties. The certification is typically obtained through a program offered by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) or the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE).

Q2. How do I become an Optometric Technician?

A2. To become an Optometric Technician, you must complete a training program approved by the ABO or NCLE, and pass their certification exam. The training program usually includes courses in anatomy and physiology, ocular diseases, contact lenses, refraction and visual science.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified as an Optometric Technician?

A3. It depends on the individual’s commitment to study and prepare for the certification exam. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary courses and exams required for certification as an Optometric Technician.

Q4. How much does it cost to become certified as an optometric technician?

A4: Costs will vary depending on which organization you choose for your certification program, but generally range from $200-$500 for tuition fees, materials, and other related expenses such as travel costs for attending classes or workshops.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my optometric technician certification?

A5: Typically, optometric technician certifications need to be renewed every three years in order to remain valid and up-to-date with current industry standards and practices. Renewal requirements may include continuing education credits or retaking the examination depending on which organization issued your certification