Overview
COA and opticianry education
The Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA) accredits two-year opticianry degree programs at post-secondary institutions. CHEA-recognized (since 2010). Opticians fit and dispense eyewear based on prescriptions from optometrists and ophthalmologists.
The Path
Certification and licensure
Accreditation supports certification and, where required, licensure. Opticians earn national certification through the ABO (American Board of Opticianry, for eyeglasses) and the NCLE (National Contact Lens Examiners, for contact lenses). About half of U.S. states license opticians, often requiring these certifications and/or an accredited program or apprenticeship; the rest do not regulate the field.
Do It Yourself
Verify a program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits opticianry programs? The Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA), which accredits two-year opticianry degree programs. It is CHEA-recognized.
- What certifications do opticians earn? National certification through the ABO (American Board of Opticianry, for eyeglasses) and the NCLE (National Contact Lens Examiners, for contact lenses).
- Are opticians licensed? About half of U.S. states license opticians, often requiring ABO/NCLE certification and/or an accredited program or apprenticeship; the other states do not regulate the field.
- What is the difference between an optician and an optometrist? Opticians fit and dispense eyewear from a prescription; optometrists (see the optometry page) examine eyes and write prescriptions and hold a doctoral degree.
- What degree do opticians need? Typically a two-year opticianry degree from a COA-accredited program, though pathways vary by state.
- Is COA recognized by the government? COA is CHEA-recognized.
- Do I need an accredited program to be an optician? It depends on your state — licensing states often require an accredited program or apprenticeship plus ABO/NCLE certification; non-licensing states do not.
- How do I verify an opticianry program? Search the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation's list of accredited programs.