Opticians

What They Do:

• They fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions written by optometrists or ophthalmologists.

• They measure patients’ eyes, recommend eyeglass frames and lenses based on the patient’s needs and can reshape eyeglass frames to fit properly.  When licensed to do so, opticians also can fit contact lenses.

Credentials:

• They are licensed (required in twenty-one states) after they have earned either an associate opticianry degree (one- to two-year program), or after they have apprenticed for at least two years.

• They must pass a licensing examination and some apply to the American Board of Opticianry for certification.  Certification is awarded after passing an exam, and must be renewed every three years. 

• In some states, opticians must pass the National Contact Lens Examination to dispense contact lenses. 

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