Top 11 Optometrist Certifications

Certifications are important for optometrists in the job market as they demonstrate a professional level of knowledge, skill and experience to employers. They can also help optometrists stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of being hired. Certifications provide assurance to employers that an optometrist has the necessary qualifications to perform their duties competently and safely. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement or higher salaries due to the increased level of responsibility that comes with them.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Optometrists and explain how they can enhance an optometrist's career.

What are Optometrist Certifications?

Optometrist certification is a process by which optometrists can demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of optometry. It is a voluntary process that requires an optometrist to pass a comprehensive examination which covers all aspects of optometry, from diagnosis and treatment to management and administration. Optometrist certification is important because it provides assurance to patients and employers that the optometrist they are working with has the necessary qualifications and experience to provide quality care.

Certification also helps ensure that optometrists are up-to-date on the latest treatments and technologies in the field. By completing continuing education courses, passing recertification exams, or attending seminars, certified optometrists can stay at the forefront of their profession. This allows them to provide more effective care for their patients as well as offer a higher level of service than non-certified practitioners. Additionally, certification gives an extra layer of credibility to an optometrist's practice; this can help attract new patients as well as retain existing ones.

Pro Tip: Make sure to complete continuing education requirements and maintain an up-to-date license in order to stay certified as an optometrist. Additionally, look into additional certifications that may be available in your state or region such as therapeutic pharmaceutical agents (TPAs) or advanced glaucoma management.

Related: What does an Optometrist do?

Top 11 Optometrist Certifications

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

1. American Board of Optometry (ABO)

The American Board of Optometry (ABO) is a professional organization that certifies optometrists in the United States. The ABO was founded in 1934 and is the oldest optometric certification organization in the country. To become certified, an optometrist must pass a rigorous exam that tests their knowledge and skills in all areas of optometry. This includes topics such as ocular anatomy, optics, contact lenses, and pharmacology.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the certification process. During this time, optometrists must complete a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised patient care and take courses in advanced clinical topics. They must also pass both written and clinical examinations administered by the ABO.

To get certified by the ABO, applicants must first submit an application along with supporting documentation such as transcripts from their educational program and letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues. After submitting their application materials, applicants will receive an invitation to take the ABO examination if they meet all eligibility requirements.

The cost for taking the ABO examination varies depending on where you live and which type of exam you are taking (written or clinical). Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 to take either exam.

2. National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO)

The National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) is a non-profit organization that provides certification and licensure examinations for optometrists in the United States. The NBEO is recognized by all 50 states and the District of Columbia as the standard for optometric licensure.

The NBEO offers three examinations: the Basic Science Examination, Clinical Science Examination, and Patient Assessment & Management Examination. Each exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become an optometrist, you must pass all three exams. It can take up to two years to prepare for these exams, depending on your background knowledge and experience level. You will need to study topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, optics, ocular disease management, vision therapy/rehabilitation, contact lenses, practice management/ethics, and more.

The cost of taking the NBEO exams varies depending on where you take them. Generally speaking, it costs around $600-$700 per exam or $1800-$2100 for all three exams combined.

3. American Academy of Optometry (AAO)

The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) is a professional organization that promotes excellence in optometric practice and education. It is dedicated to advancing the profession through research, advocacy, continuing education, and public awareness. The AAO was founded in 1922 and has grown to include more than 11,000 members worldwide.

To become an AAO member, you must have a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited school of optometry or be a licensed optometrist in good standing. You must also complete an application process that includes providing proof of your credentials and paying the required membership fees.

The cost for joining the AAO varies depending on your membership type. For example, student memberships are $75 per year while regular memberships are $150 per year. There are also additional fees for special interest groups or committees within the organization.

Once you have completed the application process and paid the required fees, you will receive your official membership card and access to all of the benefits associated with being an AAO member. These benefits include access to exclusive resources such as journals, conferences, online courses, and discounts on products related to optometry. Additionally, members can take advantage of networking opportunities with other professionals in their field as well as participate in continuing education programs offered by the academy.

4. Contact Lens and Cornea Certification (CLC)

Contact Lens and Cornea Certification (CLC) is a certification program offered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO). It is designed to recognize optometrists who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in contact lens fitting, corneal disease management, and specialty contact lens fitting. The CLC certification is valid for five years and can be renewed upon completion of continuing education credits.

To obtain the CLC certification, optometrists must first pass a written examination administered by NBEO. The exam covers topics such as contact lens materials, design, care and handling, clinical applications of lenses, corneal physiology and pathology, ocular surface diseases, specialty contact lenses, refractive surgery co-management, and patient education.

The cost of the CLC certification exam varies depending on when it is taken. The fee for taking the exam at an NBEO-approved testing center is $595 USD. If the exam is taken online or through a proctoring service, the fee is $695 USD. The fees cover both the application process and the administration of the exam itself.

Once an optometrist has passed the CLC examination they will receive their certificate in approximately 4-6 weeks.

5. Ocular Disease Management Certification (ODMC)

Ocular Disease Management Certification (ODMC) is a certification program designed to recognize optometrists who have achieved a high level of expertise in the diagnosis and management of ocular diseases. The program is administered by the American Board of Optometry (ABO).

The ODMC program consists of two parts: an online course and a written exam. The online course covers topics such as ocular anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical management. It typically takes about 12 hours to complete the online course. After completing the course, candidates must pass a written exam that assesses their knowledge and skills in ocular disease management.

To become certified, candidates must be licensed optometrists with at least one year of clinical experience in ocular disease management. They must also pay an application fee and submit proof of completion of the online course.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the type of certification sought (e.g., general or specialty). Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 to become certified through the ODMC program.

6. Low Vision Rehabilitation Certification (LVR)

Low Vision Rehabilitation Certification (LVR) is a certification program designed to help professionals become more knowledgeable and skilled in providing low vision rehabilitation services. The LVR certification is offered through the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and expertise in providing quality care to individuals with visual impairments.

The LVR certification requires successful completion of a written examination, which covers topics such as low vision assessment, intervention strategies, and service delivery. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the LVR certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with individuals who have visual impairments, or have completed a minimum of 30 hours of approved continuing education courses related to low vision rehabilitation.

The cost of the LVR certification exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $250 USD; in Canada, it is $300 CAD; and in other countries outside North America, it is $400 USD.

Once certified, professionals must renew their credentials every five years by completing at least 20 hours of approved continuing education activities related to low vision rehabilitation services.

7. Pediatric Optometry Certification (POC)

Pediatric Optometry Certification (POC) is a certification program offered by the American Board of Optometry (ABO). It is designed to recognize optometrists who have demonstrated excellence in providing comprehensive, quality care to children. The POC program focuses on the diagnosis, management and treatment of pediatric eye diseases and vision disorders.

The POC program requires applicants to complete a two-year residency in pediatric optometry. During this time, the applicant must demonstrate proficiency in various areas such as pediatric ocular anatomy and physiology, clinical skills, patient education and communication, research methods and more. After completing the residency program, the applicant must pass a written exam administered by the ABO.

Once certified, optometrists can use the POC designation after their name to signify their expertise in pediatric eye care. The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years by taking continuing education courses related to pediatric optometry.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of residency program chosen and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $10,000-$15,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include books, supplies and travel expenses associated with attending conferences or workshops related to pediatric optometry.

8. Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Certification (NORC)

Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Certification (NORC) is a certification program designed to train optometrists and other healthcare professionals in the field of Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation. This certification program focuses on helping patients with visual deficits due to brain injury, stroke, or neurological diseases. It also helps individuals with developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other conditions that can affect vision. The NORC program provides comprehensive training in the assessment and treatment of these types of patients.

The NORC program consists of three levels: Level 1 is a self-study course that takes approximately three months to complete; Level 2 is an online course that takes approximately nine months to complete; and Level 3 is an intensive clinical practicum that requires six months of supervised practice in order to receive the certification.

In order to get certified as a NORC practitioner, applicants must first obtain their optometry license from their state board of optometry. After obtaining licensure, applicants must then pass all three levels of the NORC program in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the NORC program varies depending on the level being taken and whether it is done online or in person. Generally speaking, the cost for Levels 1 and 2 range from $1,000-$2,000 each while Level 3 can cost up to $5,000 or more depending on where it is taken and how long it takes.

9. Sports Vision Certification (SVC)

Sports Vision Certification (SVC) is a certification program designed to provide optometrists and other eye care professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate, diagnose, and treat vision problems that may affect an athlete’s performance. The program is administered by the American Optometric Association (AOA).

The SVC program consists of two parts: a core course and an elective course. The core course covers topics such as sports vision physiology, sports vision testing, visual training/therapy, and sports-related ocular diseases. The elective course focuses on specific sport-related topics such as baseball or soccer.

The SVC program takes approximately three months to complete. To get certified, you must first complete the core course and then pass the final exam with a score of at least 75%. After passing the exam, you must also complete an approved elective course within one year of passing the core exam in order to be fully certified.

The cost for Sports Vision Certification varies depending on your location and which courses you take. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1,000 for both courses combined.

10. Ocular Therapeutics Certification (OTC)

Ocular Therapeutics Certification (OTC) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of excellence in ocular therapeutics. It is administered by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). The program is designed to ensure that ophthalmologists have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively prescribe, dispense, and monitor ocular therapeutic medications.

The OTC program consists of three parts: a written examination, an oral examination, and a practical examination. The written exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of general ocular therapeutics, while the oral exam assesses their ability to communicate with patients about their condition and treatment options. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in administering ocular treatments.

The entire process takes approximately six months to complete. Candidates must first submit an application along with supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. Once accepted into the program, candidates must pass all three exams within one year in order to receive certification.

In order to apply for OTC certification, applicants must be licensed physicians who are members of the AAO or have completed an approved residency program in ophthalmology or optometry. Applicants must also have at least one year of experience practicing ophthalmology or optometry prior to applying for certification.

The cost for OTC certification varies depending on whether you are an AAO member or not. For non-members, the cost is $1,000 plus any applicable taxes; for AAO members, it is $750 plus any applicable taxes.

11. Refractive Surgery Co-Management Certification (RSCCM).

Refractive Surgery Co-Management Certification (RSCCM) is a certification program offered by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). It is designed to provide ophthalmologists with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively co-manage refractive surgery patients. This includes preoperative evaluation, postoperative management, and patient education.

The RSCCM certification program consists of two components: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as patient selection, preoperative evaluation, postoperative management, and patient education. The in-person exam is administered by the AAO and tests the knowledge gained from the online course.

It typically takes three months to complete the RSCCM certification process. During this time, you must complete the online course, register for the in-person exam, and pass it with a score of 75% or higher.

The cost of obtaining RSCCM certification varies depending on your membership status with the AAO. For non-members, it costs $1,000; for members, it costs $500; and for residents/fellows in training programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), it costs $250.

In addition to these fees, there may be additional costs associated with travel to take the in-person exam if you are not located near an AAO testing site.

Do You Really Need a Optometrist Certificate?

An optometrist certificate is an important document that can have a significant impact on your career. It is the equivalent of a diploma, and it indicates that you have met all of the necessary requirements to become an optometrist. It also serves as proof that you have completed the necessary education and training to practice optometry.

The optometrist certificate is required by most states in order to be licensed to practice optometry. Without this certification, you may not be able to open your own practice or even get hired at an existing one. It is also important for those who want to pursue academic research or teaching opportunities in the field of optometry. A certificate can also give you more credibility when applying for jobs or seeking promotions in the field.

In addition, having an optometrist certificate shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable and have a commitment to providing quality care for patients. Having this certification demonstrates your dedication and passion for working with people’s eyesight, which can help make you stand out from other applicants.

Overall, having an optometrist certificate is essential if you plan to work as an optometrist or pursue any other related fields. It serves as proof of your expertise and dedication, which can give you a competitive edge in the job market or when applying for higher-level positions within the profession.

Related: Optometrist Resume Examples

FAQs About Optometrist Certifications

1. What is an optometrist certification?

Answer: An optometrist certification is a credential earned by completing an accredited program of study and passing a comprehensive national exam. It is a form of recognition that demonstrates the optometrist has met certain standards of training and knowledge in the profession.

2. How do I become certified as an optometrist?

Answer: To become certified as an optometrist, you must successfully complete an accredited program of study in optometry and pass a comprehensive national exam administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO).

3. What is the difference between an optometrist and ophthalmologist?

Answer: An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye care, including diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, while an optometrist is trained to diagnose vision problems and provide corrective lenses. Ophthalmologists can perform surgery on eyes, while optometrists are not qualified to do so.

4. Is there any continuing education required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, continuing education (CE) credits are required to maintain your certification as an optometrist. The NBEO requires 30 CE credits every three years to remain certified.

5. Are there any specialty certifications available for optometrists?

Answer: Yes, many specialty certifications are available for optometrists including contact lens specialist, low vision specialist, pediatric specialist, cornea & refractive specialist, geriatric specialist, glaucoma specialist, primary care specialty and sports vision expert.