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 the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) with the assistance of Professional Testing Corporation (PTCNY). Recipients must renew their certification every three years to remain current in their field. AOA membership is not required to become certified or to maintain a paraoptometric certification.
Paraoptometric certification is a program developed by a respected panel of American Optometric Association (AOA) certified paraoptometrics and doctors of optometry, created to encourage continuing education and knowledge as the field of optometric assisting grows.
The CPO™, CPOA™ and CPOT™ examinations are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The NCCA accreditation serves as a benchmark on how organizations should conduct certification and clearly distinguishes the excellence and value of CPC certification. The CPC is a member of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence, an organization that provides education, networking and other resources for professionals.
For information on the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) exams, certification renewals, CPC Examination study resources, and more, please click this link.
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
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 ...
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 ...
How do I pay dues to renew my membership?
Most renewing member doctors of optometry pay dues through their affiliate (not MyAOA). Current Optometrist members with an existing AOA and affiliate membership can pay their renewal dues through their state or affiliate association, not through ...
How can I schedule a comprehensive eye examination at a location near me?
To schedule a comprehensive eye examination with an AOA member doctor of optometry nearest you, use our Find a Doctor tool. Need help locating a doctor of optometry near you? Send us a live chat! Access the chat feature in the lower right area of ...
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 ...