Levels of Certification

Basic Certification

Everyone who is at least 18 years of age and has a high school diploma or GED is eligible to sit for the exams. In states with conflicting regulations, the state licensing board regulations are followed.

While no experience is required, candidates with two to three years hands-on experience or completion of an optical school program are more successful in achieving their basic certification.

Advanced Certification

The Advanced Certification designations, ABOC-AC and NCLE-AC, are earned only after a practitioner has attained several years experience, completes a prescribed curriculum of advanced education, and achieves a passing score on the rigorous examinations, or is required, by a State Licensing Board, to pass the Advanced Certification Examination(s) in order to become licensed.  
 
Professionals with advanced certification credentials are equipped to work in a variety of practice settings, such as: independent opticians, ophthalmology practices, university hospitals, commercial offices, HMO/managed care offices, optometric offices, large clinics, optical product manufacturers.

Masters Designation

The Master in Ophthalmic Optics and Master in Contact Lens Technology demonstrate to the public and colleagues that an individual has attained a superior level in ophthalmic dispensing or contact lens technology. Any optician or contact lens practitioner who is currently certified by the American Board of Opticianry or National Contact Lens Examiners, and has passed the appropriate ABO or NCLE Advanced Examination, is eligible to enroll in the appropriate Masters program.