How Paraoptometrics Can Get Certified

I am a paraoptometric looking to get certified. How should I get started?

The AOA offers four levels of Paraoptometric certification, Certified Paraoptometric (CPO), Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) and Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) and Certified Paraoptometric Coder (CPOC).

The first step in preparing for a CPC certification exam is reading and understanding the Paraoptometric Examination Certification Handbook.

If you have any questions about the available CPC examination study resources, please email cpc@aoa.org. 

Need help? 
Send us a live chat! Access the chat feature in the lower right area of your screen during normal business hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m. CT).
The AOA Member Resource Center can also be reached via email message or at 800.365.2219. 

    • Related Articles

    • How do I obtain paraoptometric certification (CPO, CPOA, CPOT, CPOC)?

      The purpose of the CPO, CPOA, CPOT and CPOC examinations is to assure a level of knowledge to perform the functions necessary to each certified designation. Each program requires successful completion of an examination prepared and administered by ...

    • How can paraoptometric staff join as associate members?

      American Optometric Association member doctors can visit AOA.org and under the “Member Center” tab select “MyAOA”. Once logged in, the doctor can click "Staff Membership" to add staff to their accounts. After a staff member is added, it usually takes ...

    • Who can join the AOA? What membership categories exist?

      The American Optometric Association (AOA) represents doctors of optometry, optometry students, and others who support optometric care. Most members are doctors of optometry who join through a state, territorial, or federal services association that ...

    • How can I get information on upcoming webinars and live events?

      Stay informed about upcoming AOA webinars and live events by visiting our Calendar of Events page. There you can explore all scheduled programs and access complete details for each session—including registration information, dates, descriptions and ...

    • Our practice is hiring an OD. How do I run an ad for the position?

      Our AOA Career Center is powered by one of our AOAExcel business partners. To place an ad for the first time, you must create an AOA Career Center account, which is separate from your existing AOA member login. For information on getting started, ...