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Paraoptometric Center

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< Certification Levels

Certified Paraoptometric (CPO)

General Information

The Certified Paraoptometric Examination is prepared and administered by the AOA Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) with the assistance of the Professional Testing Corporation. The purpose of this examination is to ensure a level of knowledge to perform the functions of a Certified Paraoptometric. Those who successfully complete the examination will be certified with the CPC as a Certified Paraoptometric (CPO).

Objectives of Certification

The CPC promotes excellence in the field of optometric assisting by:

Recognizing formally those individuals who meet all requirements of the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification of the American Optometric Association;
Encouraging continued growth of the paraoptometric;
Establishing and measuring the level of knowledge required for certification of paraoptometrics; and
Promoting a standard of requisite knowledge required for certification; thereby assisting the employer, public, and members of the health professions in the assessment of paraoptometrics.

Eligibility

To sit for the Certified Paraoptometric Examination, the following requirements must be met:

Applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
Applicants must have a minimum of six months employment in the eye care field.

Application Procedure

1. Applications are available on the AOA website: www.aoa.org under "Certification". Read and follow the directions on the application and in the appropriate handbook. The application must be completed online and e-mailed if paying by credit or debit card. If paying by check, the application will need to be completed online, printed, and mailed to the CPC office. No handwritten or faxed applications will be accepted. Make note of the examination deadline on the schedule and be sure to submit your application and fees by the deadline. Applications received after the deadline are not guaranteed acceptance.

2. All correspondence regarding the application should be directed to the CPC at (800) 365-2219 ext. 4210 or e-mail cpc@aoa.org.

Fees for Examination

Examination Fee $225.00

Handling Fee $25.00

Rescheduling Fee $140.00 (see guidelines)

A check or credit card information for the appropriate fee must accompany your application. Make check or money order payable to the AOA-CPC in U.S. funds. No refunds will be made.