AOA Paraoptometric Membership and Certification FAQs
How do I become a paraoptometric member?
American Optometric Association member doctors can visit AOA.org and under the “Member Center” tab select the “Access MyAOA” button. Once logged in, the doctor can click "Staff Membership" to add staff to their accounts. After the doctor submits the staff member through Staff Membership, please allow approximately 30 minutes for the membership to process and for the staff member's access to become available.
I don’t work for an AOA-member doctor, but I want to get certified. What should I do?
You do not need to be an AOA member to become certified. Certification is available to non-members.
Where do I get my eligibility number?
Your Eligibility Number is provided in the Scheduling Authorization email sent by Professional Testing Corporation (PTC).
If you have not received that email, please contact PTC directly at:
www.ptcny.com/contact
I’m having trouble signing up for the exam online. Who can help?
Please contact Professional Testing Corporation (PTC):
Phone: 212.356.0660
Website:
www.ptcny.com/contact
I need a receipt for my exam.
Please contact Professional Testing Corporation (PTC):
Phone: 212.356.0660
Website:
www.ptcny.com/contact
I need to reschedule my exam. Who can help?
Please contact Prometric:
Phone: 800.741.0934
Prometric can schedule, reschedule, and confirm appointments only.
When does my certification expire?
For assistance with your certification expiration date, please email memberservices@aoa.org or call AOA Member Services at 800.365.2219.
How many credits do I need to renew?
Paraoptometrics must earn 18 continuing education (CE) credits during each renewal period.
Credits may be earned in any combination from:
AOA/CPC
ABO
NCLE
JCAHPO
COPE
At least 9 of the 18 hours must be AOA/CPC approved.
Does CPR count toward renewal credit?
Yes.
The CPC will award 4 hours of CE for in-person CPR courses lasting at least 4 hours. These courses may be taken once during the three-year renewal period.
Courses must be presented or approved by:
American Heart Association
American Red Cross
American Safety & Health Institute
Online CPR courses are eligible for 1 hour of credit.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and/or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) from the American Heart Association may be taken once during the three-year renewal period and will be awarded 2 CPC-approved credits for each course.
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