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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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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BC Health Regulatory College Amalgamation | Fall 2023 Update - September 27, 2023
[What] Over the Summer, we have been working closely with the 10 other amalgamating colleges and trusted advisors in planning efforts for amalgamation Day 1 in June 2024. Whilst we’ve been busy there are some key updates to share with you: We have a plan in place to identify, decide and execute on critical priorities for our new multi-professional regulatory college. […]
Read MoreAddressing Indigenous cultural safety, humility, and anti-racism -
Nine BC health profession regulatory colleges, including The College of Optometrists of BC, have jointly released a comprehensive progress report outlining Indigenous cultural safety, humility, and anti-racism activities in the two years since signing a Statement of Apology and Commitment to Action. The release of this Joint Apology and Commitment to Action 2021-2023 Report coincides […]
Read MoreWe would like your feedback about the PEP! - September 13, 2023
To ensure the PEP is a great tool for you, we would like your input about the PEP portal, self assessment, and our communications with you about the program. Please complete the 15-minute PEP Survey about your experience with the PEP. The PEP Survey is administered by the CSC Collab, and is anonymous and confidential. […]
Read MoreForm 6: Notice of Annual General Meeting 2023 - September 1, 2023
Dr. Rick Gambrel The annual general meeting of the College of Optometrists of British Columbia will take place at 6:30 p.m. on November 2, 2023, via teleconference. A link to the teleconference will be sent to you on October 27, 2023. The business to be considered at the meeting is as follows: Call to order […]
Read MoreSurvey results: Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, & Anti-Racism Standard of Practice - June 21, 2023
On September 30, 2022, 11 BC health profession regulatory colleges adopted an Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, & Anti-Racism Standard of Practice (PDF). The standard sets clear expectations for how registrants are to provide culturally safe and anti-racist care for Indigenous clients and patients. In February 2023, 10 colleges – including CDOBC – circulated a survey on […]
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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
Public Notices
CDOBC adopts Indigenous Cultural Safety, Humility, and Anti-Racism standard of practice - September 26, 2022
Posted September 26, 2022
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