American Board of Optometry

EMPOWERING OPTOMETRISTS TO BE THE BEST FOR THEIR PATIENTS

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I Want to Verify an Optometrist's Status

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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ABO Announces New Student Candidate Program

We are excited to announce that beginning in January 2025, third- and fourth-year optometry students can apply to become a Student Candidate in the American Board of Optometry! The program will provide students an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to providing competent, knowledgeable patient care throughout their future career.

AFOS

ABO Attends AFOS Meeting in Indianapolis

ABO's leadership team has met regularly with AFOS leadership over the last 18 months to better understand the needs of federal service optometrists. We were excited to meet them in Indy to provide an update on new developments!

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Diplomate Spotlight - John Gialousakis, OD

Dr. Gialousakis decided to pursue Board Certification to demonstrate his commitment to the highest standard of patient care and professional development.

"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.

Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) Exam Window

Aug 1, 2024 @ 8:00 am - Dec 15, 2024 @ 5:00 pm CDT
The 2024 exam window for CAQ applicants is open from August 1 - December 15. All CAQ applicants who have met the exam eligibility criteria...
More About Event > about Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) Exam Window

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.