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

7-24-19-2

CAQ Assessments Available!

The final piece in earning a CAQ is now available! CAQ assessments are open and can be accessed by any Diplomate who has an approved application for Glaucoma or Cornea & Contact Lens.

CRO A CE Journal For Optometry Logo

ABO to Collaborate with the CRO Journal

ABO is excited to announce a collaboration with the CRO (Clinical & Refractive Optometry) Journal, with the intention of providing ABO Diplomates with additional learning opportunities. The first new learning module will be available to Diplomates on their learning plan page by November 15, under Category 2: Self Guided Learning Modules.

Mark Shirey

Diplomate Spotlight - Dr. Mark Shirey

Dr. Mark Shirey, a graduate of Southern College of Optometry, has been the CEO of Southern Vision Care in Mobile, AL since 2005. 

"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.

Spring Exam Window

Feb 1, 2024 @ 8:00 am - Mar 31, 2024 @ 5:00 pm CST
The next administration of the board certification exam will be February 1 - March 31, 2024. Applications may be submitted at any time. Scheduling for...
More About Event > about Spring Exam Window

Webinar: Neuro-ophthalmic Clinical Review

Feb 13, 2024 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm CST
Join us on February 13 as Leonard Messner, OD, presents a neuro-ophthalmic clinical review. This course provides an overview of chiasmal and retrochiasmal visual field...
More About Event > about Webinar: Neuro-ophthalmic Clinical Review

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.