American Board of Optometry

EMPOWERING OPTOMETRISTS TO BE THE BEST FOR THEIR PATIENTS

Diplomate, Candidate and Student Login

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Introducing the CAQ!

ABO is pleased to offer the Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) credential to Diplomates who demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise, and who provide patient care with emphasis on, and commitment to, these focused areas of optometry.

CAQ

Recent News

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Diplomate Spotlight - Essence Johnson, OD

Dr. Johnson has been practicing for 15 years across private practice, community health clinics, and correctional health. Becoming board certified was an intentional decision to demonstrate her commitment to lifelong learning and clinical excellence.

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New Student Initiatives

As optometry students transition from the classroom to clinical practice, it is essential that the role of continuous learning is valued and embraced early on. Today’s optometrists must be well-equipped to navigate a barrage of new information with the ability to identify key advances, then process and understand that knowledge and integrate it into practice.

Dr. Mark Eltis

Recent News

Congratulations to ABO Diplomate and Board Director Dr. Mark Eltis on his election to serve a third term as President of the College of Optometrists of Ontario! Dr. Eltis is also a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, a member of the Optometric Glaucoma Society and a sought-after speaker and author.

"Being a Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry holds me accountable for lifelong learning. It give me a goal to work toward each year."

Lauren Goldsmith, OD

Diplomate, American Board of Optometry

“Obtaining board certification after residency reflected my strong commitment to stay current with the evolving profession, while reinforcing relevant clinical knowledge both in primary care and specialty areas of optometry.”

Tara Vacharkulksemsuk, OD

Diplomate, American Board of Optometry

Upcoming Events

Stay in the know about exams, training, and more.

Webinar: Clinical Quandaries

May 8, 2025 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm CDT
Save the date for Thursday May 8, 2025 to attend Clinical Quandaries, presented by Dr. Paul Ajamian. This course will look at actual cases seen...
More About Event > about Webinar: Clinical Quandaries

ABO Annual Meeting

Jun 24, 2025 @ 9:00 am - 4:30 pm CDT
The American Board of Optometry annual Board of Directors meeting will take place in Minneapolis, MN in conjunction with Optometry's Meeting. The board and staff...
More About Event > about ABO Annual Meeting

Optometry’s Meeting

Jun 25, 2025 @ 6:00 pm - Jun 27, 2025 @ 4:30 pm CDT
Attending Optometry's Meeting in Minneapolis? Visit the American Board of Optometry at booth 630 in the exhibit hall on Wednesday, June 25 from 6 -...
More About Event > about Optometry’s Meeting

BOARD CERTIFICATION BENEFITS, FAQs, & MORE

Considering certification? Get started here.

Why should I become Board Certified?

By going through the voluntary process of becoming Board Certified, our Diplomates demonstrate competence beyond entry level.

How do I get started becoming an American Board of Optometry Diplomate?

Applying to become an Active Candidate is the first step. Click the start certification button below, and complete all four pages of the application. This will initiate the verification process.

What should I know about the exam process?

Looking for cost information, dates, registered testing centers, or questions about the exam in general? Start here.