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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Board Certification IS Gaining Ground in All Healthcare

With mounting evidence that supports the value of board certification, the number of board-certified providers across all health care professions is growing. Twenty years ago, the number of board-certified healthcare professionals outside of MDs was minimal. Today that is no longer the case. Board certification is becoming mainstream in allied health professions too.

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By the Numbers - Systemic Health CAP Summary

Final results are now available for the 2025 Systemic Health CAP Assessment. See how your performance compared to your colleagues and if Diplomates were able to put new knowledge into practice.

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Diplomate Spotlight - Joseph Allen, OD

Have you seen the YouTube channel, Dr. Eye Health? It was founded by ABO Diplomate, Joseph Allen, OD who wanted to bridge the gap between clinical knowledge and everyday understanding.

"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.

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...
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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 -...
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Webinar – Myopia Management

Aug 20, 2025 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm CDT
Join Dr. Cheryl Chapman for a course that explores new developments in myopia management, reviews fundamental basics in diagnosis and treatment and looks at what...
More About Event > about Webinar – Myopia Management

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.