About Certification for Opticians

Most opticians learn their craft through on the job training. They can also choose to learn through opticianry school training. For those who live in specific states, they may need to certify in the field before dispensing prescription eye wear.

Training Requirements

Currently, 21 states require opticians to hold licenses in the field. The states may also require these eye professionals to have at least two years of formal training in an accredited institution. Depending on where students live, there are 21 schools that teach opticianry.

Professionals can choose to learn through an optician apprenticeship program. They may do this in the offices of eye doctors or optometrists. Opticians may also learn by training in large optical stores, corporations or clinical areas. The 21 states require them to have two to four years of in-depth training before taking the certification exam.

Educational Requirements

Even if opticians choose to train with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, they still need to know many specific things pertaining to their job duties. They need to know and understand mathematics, specifically optician math. Chemistry is another educational course that is critical to the job. Reading, writing and English skills are essential to their careers. All of these educational requirements for opticians affect their job duties.

The Certification Exam

The optician certification exam will address dispensary methods, frame construction, measurements and several other areas of work. Exam takers can take the National Contact Lens Examiners and the American Board of Opticianry for their licenses. States require opticians to recertify every three years through CE credits, also known as continuing education.