Protecting the Public and Guiding the Profession
The College of Optometrists of British Columbia guides and regulates all optometrists registered with the College. Our mandate is to act in the public interest and to ensure the public is provided with safe, ethical and effective optometric services throughout the province.
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Learn more about registering as an Optometrist in British Columbia
In order to practise optometry in British Columbia, you must complete the Registration Application, submit all documents required by that form, pay the Assessment of registration application fee, attend the College’s mandatory Orientation Session and successfully pass the Jurisprudence Examination.
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Learn More about the role of a Registered Optometrist
An optometrist is a primary eye care provider who is licensed and university educated as a doctor of optometry, to examine the eyes, diagnose defects in vision, signs of injury and ocular diseases or other disorders of the eye and visual system. In doing so, optometrists may prescribe medications, fit and supply corrective lenses or contact lenses, or other therapies and provide referrals to other health providers, when appropriate.
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Provincial Health Officer Order and Notice Regarding Health Professionals Vaccination - October 15, 2021
From the desk of the Registrar, Rick C Gambrel Please be advised that the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) today has posted the Hospital and Community (Health Care and Other Services) COVID-19 Vaccination Status Information and Preventive Measures – October 14th, 2021 Order. The order is addressed to those health care workers who are employed, contracted […]
Read MoreNATIONAL DAY OF TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION – Office Closure - September 27, 2021
September 30, 2021, will mark Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation “to commemorate the history and ongoing trauma caused by residential schools and to honour those who were lost and the survivors, families and communities who continue to grieve.” September 30 is also observed as Orange Shirt Day, promoting recognition of the colonial […]
Read MoreBC Health Regulators Sign Statement of Apology for Indigenous Racism in BC Health Care - September 9, 2021
Media Release – BC Health Regulators Sign Statement of Apology for Indigenous Racism in BC Health Care FINAL Sept 9 2021
Read MorePeer Circle - August 30, 2021
For the first time, on September 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. the College will be offering our Peer Circle worth 2 hours of CE and is offered on an online format, allowing registrants from around the province to attend remotely. Spaces are limited You may register at the following link A reminder that […]
Read MoreWorkSafe BC asking for help to communicate new digital option for release of relevant medical records - August 20, 2021
Please click the link for further information. Digital Signatures for WorkSafeBC
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Optometrist Directory
Optometrists practice in all parts of our province. To find an optometrist, enter your search below.
What Are The Standards of Practice?
All registrants of the College are required to comply with the Standards of Practice. The standards are written in plain language and span the full scope of optometric practice. Every registrant must determine – and accept accountability for – how each standard is implemented. The College provided Statements of Guidance to assist this process. The College views compliance with all standards as fundamental in the delivery of current, high quality optometric services that are safe, effective, and ethical. This in the joint interest of the public and the profession.
Current to May 27, 2019
Standards of PracticeWhat If I Have A Complaint?
The College of Optometrists of British Columbia is committed to serving and protecting the public and carrying out its mandate in a transparent and accountable manner. The College has developed a process, based on best practices, to address concerns and complaints from the public regarding the practice of registered optometrists. Complaints Process File a Complaint