ABO & NCLE Basic Certification

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Exam Overview

ABO-NCLE offers the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) year-round during four testing windows. These exams assess the essential skills and knowledge required for ophthalmic dispensing. Review the Basic Examination Handbook for content outlines and test specifications.
For scheduling, security details, and other exam-related inquiries, visit our Contact Us page.

2025 Testing Windows

  January 2 -March 31: Registration opens December 16 and closes March 15. There are no late registrations.

  April 1 - June 30: Registration opens March 16 and closes June15. There are no late registrations.

  July 1 - September 30: Registration opens June 16 and closes September 15. There are no late registrations.

  October 1 - December 21: Registration opens September 16 and closes December 15. There are no late registrations.

Exam Development

Both exams are psychometrically designed by impartial Subject Matter Experts in Opticianry and Contact Lens Fitting. Certified professionals develop and review the questions to ensure accuracy, relevance, and adherence to testing principles. Questions assess both recall and practical application of knowledge. A Practice Examination is available for purchase, and sample questions can be found in the Basic Examination Handbook.

Eligibility & Pass Rates

Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED. While no prior experience is required, those with 2–3 years of hands-on experience or completion of an optical school program have higher success rates. In 2024, the ABO Basic Exam had a 64.0% pass rate, and the NCLE Basic Exam had a 59.0% pass rate.

Exam topics include:

NOCE (Spectacle-Related Exam): Prescription analysis, spectacle fitting and dispensing, and ophthalmic equipment usage.
CLRE (Contact Lens Exam): Pre-fitting evaluation, diagnostic fitting, lens dispensing, patient education, follow-ups, and administrative procedures.
Certification & Renewal

Upon passing, you will receive a professionally lettered certificate as a symbol of your competence. Certification must be renewed every three years through continuing education and a renewal fee. Renewal requirements will be provided upon certification.

Important Notes

If you are taking an ABO/NCLE exam for state licensing, verify requirements with your state licensing board before registering, as each state has unique regulations.

For disability accommodations, download the Accommodation Request Form HERE and submit your request HERE.