I practice optometry outside of the United States. Can I join the AOA?

I practice optometry outside of the United States. Can I join the AOA?

As an optometrist* who resides in a foreign country or a territory of the U.S., you can apply for AOA international membership.


*Optometrist is as defined by the World Council of Optometry (WCO).  

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 can an international doctor of optometry practice in the United States?

      Requirements to practice optometry in the United States vary by state or jurisdiction. Each state licensing board establishes its own education, examination and other requirements for obtaining an optometry license. If you received your optometric ...

    • 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 join the American Optometric Association (AOA)?

      The American Optometric Association (AOA) offers membership options for doctors of optometry, optometric staff, students and others within the profession. Doctors of Optometry To learn about AOA membership categories, eligibility requirements and how ...

    • How much does it cost for a doctor of optometry to become a member of the AOA?

      Membership in the American Optometric Association is part of a combined membership that includes national, affiliate, and often local society dues. Because of that, the total cost can vary depending on your location and career stage. The best way to ...

    • Does AOA membership always include affiliate membership?

      In most cases, if you are a US Doctor of Optometry, AOA membership is a dual membership that includes your state optometric association or affiliate such as Armed Forces Optometric Society (AFOS). Some membership categories - mostly non-optometrists ...