The national opticianry licensing examinations are offered by the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR). The exams are held across Canada in different provinces at different times of the year, and applicants may challenge their exam(s) in any province. Visit the NACOR website to see the most up-to-date list of dates and venues for upcoming exams.
NACOR currently offers two licensing exams:
- Optical Sciences 1 – Eyeglasses Examination
- Optical Sciences 2 – Advanced Practice Contact Lens Examination
To become licensed as an optician and contact lens fitter, an applicant must pass both exams. To become licensed as an optician only, the applicant only needs to pass Optical Sciences 1.
Applicants must apply through NACOR to challenge the exam(s). Applicants requiring accommodations are encouraged to discuss their requests with NACOR well in advance of their exam date. More information about the exam process and protocols can be found in the Candidate’s Examination Handbook.
What do the licensing exams cover?
The national licensing exams are based on the National Competencies for Canadian Opticians, which outline the skills and knowledge required of any individual entering the profession. These same competencies are used as a foundation for all accredited opticianry education programs, and for COBC’s Continuing Competency Program.
Receiving your results
NACOR will contact you when the marks for your exam sitting(s) have been posted.
- What happens if I pass?
Upon successful completion of your licensing exam(s), you may apply for registration with COBC by completing and submitting all components of the Supplemental Package for Registration. - What happens if I don’t pass?
Applicants may attempt each exam up to three times. If you are still unsuccessful on your third attempt, you must propose and complete an upgrading plan, as approved by COBC’s Registration Committee, before making another attempt. For more information, please contact COBC.