American Board of Optometry

EMPOWERING OPTOMETRISTS TO BE THE BEST FOR THEIR PATIENTS

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I Want to Become Board Certified

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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Need help navigating your MOC? We'll point you in the right direction

Recent changes to MOC requirements and the Learning Builder portal have prompted numerous Diplomate inquiries. From locating the CAP assessments to printing a new Diplomate certificate, we have the answers to your most frequently asked questions.

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Canadian ODs now eligible for board certification

Beginning in 2023, optometrists licensed in Canada will be eligible to apply to take the board certification exam and earn Diplomate status.

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Meet Jaclyn Call, OD in our Diplomate Spotlight

A member of the National Association of VA Optometrists, Dr. Call currently holds an attending position at the East Orange VA Hospital in New Jersey.

"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...
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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.