Opticians use data from prescriptions made by Optometrists or Ophthalmologists to help patients and customers fit glasses or contact lenses. They may take measurements of the ocular area, recommend appropriate frames or contact lenses and help fit and adjust frames or lenses as needed.
Optician Certification Training
Frequent Questions
Many US states require certification for opticians. In those that do not, many clinics, eye health facilities and professionals require certification as a condition of optician employment. ABO certification generally meets both requirements. However, we do recommend researching the state requirements prior to pursuing a career as an optician.
The ABO exam covers ophthalmic science and a combination of ocular anatomy, principles of ophthalmic products and instruments, dispensing procedures and legal considerations for opticians.
Opticians need to be able to read and fill prescriptions, calculate formulas, use ophthalmic equipment, keep up with eyewear styles and trends, relate to patients, and understand human eyes and the difficulties and diseases they encounter.