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DISPENSING OPTICIANS
License Description DISPENSING OPTICIANS

Opticians make and dispense eyeglasses/contact lenses from a doctor's prescription. They can also fit eye glasses to the face. They do not write prescriptions or fit contacts to the eyes.

REQUIREMENTS:
Be 18 years of age and satisfy education and experience and examination requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent and one of the following: Completion of a two-year course of study in a college level program accredited by the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation

OR
Three years as a full-time registered apprentice with the Board.

EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:
There are four (4) required examinations. (Passing scores are listed after names.) The National Opticianry Competency Examination (ABO), 70; and the National Contact Lens Registry Examination (NCLE), 72 are written examinations provided through the American Board of Opticianry. Two practical examinations are provided by the Board. The examinations require competency in the use of the Lensclock, 70 and the Vertometer, 70.

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
Annual continuing education is required. The education must consist of attendance at programs which have been approved by the Board. The number of hours acquired is established by the Board annually on or before February 1 of the calendar year and may not be less than three (3) clock hours or more than twelve (12) clock hours, but is traditionally set at eight (8) hours.

RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS:
Every two years contingent on satisfying continuing education requirements.
Licensing Agency
Department of Health
Division of Health Related Boards
Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor
Nashville, TN 37243
(615) 741 5735
Active Status Active
Continuing Education Continuing education required to maintain license
Criminal Record No criminal record prohibitions
Education Degree required
Exam State exam required
License Type Register with licensing agency
License Updated 08/10/2023
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