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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The Professional Enhancement Program - October 6, 2022
The College’s core mandate is to ensure public safety. Quality assurance is one of the mechanisms by which the College supports registrants in effectively maintaining their professional competence so that the services they provide to the public are safe and effective. To further enable registrants to provide the highest standard of service to the public, […]
Read MoreOffice Closure - September 14, 2022
The College’s office will be closed on September 19, 2022 – National Day of Mourning to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II, and re-open on September 20, 2022 at 9:00 am.
Read MoreNATIONAL DAY OF TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION – Office Closure -
September 30, 2022, will mark 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 legacy of […]
Read MoreLumify remains as a Prescription only drug in BC - September 7, 2022
In response to several questions regarding the drug Lumify which has been approved by Health Canada as an Over the Counter (OTC) drug, here in BC it remains as a Prescription only drug. According to the College of Pharmacists of BC: Brimonidine of any strength or salt is still schedule 1 in BC. While the […]
Read MoreUpdate on masking requirement - April 19, 2022
On March 10, 2022, the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) issued a notice stating that wearing a mask in public indoor settings is no longer required by public health. The PHO’s guidance letter to all BC health regulatory colleges included the following paragraph: “In addition to following masking requirements established by employers and operators as part […]
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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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