What is an Optometrist?

Doctors of Optometry (O.D.s/optometrists) are the independent primary health care professionals for the eye.  Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye.

  • Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures.
  • Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle.
  • An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
  • Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.
I'M A DIPLOMATE/CANDIDATE

LEARNING BUILDER ACCOUNT ACCESS

Check Board Certification Status

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

Upcoming Events

Stay in the know about exams, training, and more by visiting our events page.

Annual Board of Directors Meeting

Jun 16, 2026
The ABO Board of Directors will hold its annual meeting in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday, June 16th. The Board gathers...
More About Event > about Annual Board of Directors Meeting

Optometry’s Meeting

Jun 17, 2026 @ 7:00 pm - Jun 19, 2026 @ 4:00 pm CDT
Visit ABO at Optometry's Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona! We will be at booth 1232 starting Wednesday evening, June17 through Friday,...
More About Event > about Optometry’s Meeting

Webinar: The Updated Lab Work Primer

Jul 29, 2026 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm CDT
Please join us for our summer webinar, The Updated Lab Work Primer,  presented by Meghan Elkins, OD. This course reviews...
More About Event > about Webinar: The Updated Lab Work Primer

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.