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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Health Canada Advisory - January 6, 2021
The following information was received today from Health Canada: Health Canada Advisory The link for Health Canada’s Guide 84 seems to be broken. Health Canada’s Bringing health products into Canada for personal use (GUI-0116) provides similar information. Health Canada’s Importing and exporting health products for commercial use (GUI-0117) may also be helpful.
Read MoreCOLLEGE OFFICE HOLIDAY CLOSURE - December 18, 2020
Please be advised that the College office will be closed for the holidays, from December 24 at 12:00 p.m. to January 1 and will reopen January 4, 2021. The Staff of the College joins me in extending our best wishes to you and your family, for a safe and happy holiday season.
Read MoreProvince-wide restrictions: new COVID-19 measures - November 20, 2020
The College continues to monitor the status of the COVID-19 pandemic closely and takes direction from BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO), the BC Centre for Disease Control, and the Ministry of Health. Effective November 19, 2020, new orders and restrictions were announced by the PHO, including orders about mask use. Masks (non-medical) must by worn […]
Read MoreEmployment opportunity - November 18, 2020
The College of Optometrists of British Columbia is seeking a Coordinator, Registrant Services. The Coordinator will administer registration processes and monitor registrant files and records to ensure compliance with internal policies and legislative requirements. Information on the role, key duties and responsibilities, and the required skills, qualifications and experience are available. WHO WE ARE: The […]
Read MoreCOBC update on mask use following clarification from the Public Health Officer - November 12, 2020
Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, has provided further clarification on the scope and application of the Ministry of Health’s policy communique Mask Use in Health Care Facilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic. In a November 11, 2020 letter to registrars of the BC health professions, Dr. Henry states that the mask use directive in the […]
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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