Step 1
Access the information package in either English or French for those who have graduated from an optometry school accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) .
or
Access the information package for internationally educated applicants or graduates of a non-ACOE accredited optometry school.
Please note (updated October 20, 2017):
- For applicants who graduated from optometry programs accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE), the onus is on the applicant to ensure that the ACOE program is a fully accredited optometry program by contacting ACOE directly. Programs with a preliminary or conditional accreditation are not acceptable for registration with the College.
- The information packages above address only registration requirements. Once you have completed these registration requirements, the College will update your status in writing and send various forms that you will need to complete. To practise as an optometrist in Ontario, you need valid professional liability insurance. A variety of insurance companies sell professional liability insurance. The OAO also offers a professional liability insurance plan to its members.
Step 2
Once you have thoroughly read one of the above information packages that applies to you (and successfully completed the pre-registration process if you are an internationally educated applicant), access the application form for a General Certificate of Registration in either English or French.
You can also apply online. Please visit Apply Online to learn more.
The following flow chart illustrates the process for application for: A General Certificate of Registration