Fitting, adjusting, and repairing frames are important components of the optician job description and are essential skills that everyone entering this profession must master. Because opticians spend so much time working directly with eyeglasses, it is important to make sure the proper tools are available for use. The following is a list of common tools that opticians depend on to perform their daily responsibilities. Familiarizing yourself with these tools and how they are used will help refine your skills in the industry.
Frame Adjustment Tools
- Double Nylon Jaw Pliers – Used for adjusting bridges, endpieces, and temples
- Angling Pliers – Used for pantoscopic and retroscopic angle adjustments
- Snipe Nose Pliers – Used for fine eyewire adjustments
- Cutter Pliers – Used to cut screws
- Nose Pad Pliers – Used for nose pad assembly adjustments
- Axis Pliers – Used for lens axis alignment
- Compression Pliers – Used for rimless eyeglass frames
- Compression Sleeve Cutters – Used for trimming compression sleeves
- 3-Piece Frame Adjusting Pliers – Used for drill mount frame adjustment
- Screwdriver Set – Used for removing and replacing screws
- Nutdriver Set – Used for removing and replacing nuts
- Hot Air Frame Warmer - Used for warming plastic frames
Click Here for Bundled Optician Tool Kits
Other Commonly Used Tools
- Pupilometer – Used to measure pupillary distance
- Distometer – Used to measure vertex distance
- Polariscope – Used to measure lens stress
In addition to the tools listed above, an optician should have a selection of flat head, phillips, and pick-up screwdrivers; hex nut drivers; screw extractors; files; drills; and calipers available for use. These tools will be used frequently and are important for providing high quality service and preventing hand strain. The proper tools coupled with the specialized skill of the optician should result in an ability to fit, adjust, and repair frames in just about any situation.
I had an ophthalmic technician certificate from a college of health technology, i have been practicing fitting, adjusting, repairing and dispensing of eyeglasses for 8yrs.
What can i do to increase my educational status at work. Thanks
I’m currently studying dispensing opticianry in Nigeria and one of my friends called me and said this industry is not a profession. I’d like to learn more about the industry.
Cindy,
Although Opticians in the US are not required to complete as much education and training as other more advanced eye care professionals, they do represent an important profession within the optical field that is complementary to the services provided by the medical branch of the specialty.
Hello,
I’m interested in taking the ABO and NCLE exams. What books or tools can be useful to pass these tests? I worked at an optical establishment for almost 5 yrs; however, I never registered as an apprentice. I tried going to school and for now, my schedule is very hard to change. I currently work in a hospital and I miss the optical business.
Thanks,
Lyn
Lyn,
Most people who are studying for the opticianry certification exams offered through the ABO use ‘System for Ophthalmic Dispensing’ to prepare for the tests. You can learn more about this book as well as many others by visiting our training resources page.
I recently completed my BSc Optometry Program and was hired by a clinic where I deal with optical dispensing. I did my internship in a hospital where I acquired a very basic knowledge of dispensing. I want to polish my skills and was wondering if there are some books that you could recommend? Thanks!
Stevenson,
Congratulations on completing the program! We recommend a number of books that are commonly used to prepare for certification exams and as a clinical reference on our training resources page. These books are very popular in the industry and cover just about everything you would need to know when it comes to optical dispensing. I hope you find them helpful.
I am have been licensed in Virginia for 16 years. What does California require to become licensed there?
Kari,
The details for California licensure can be found on the state specific page. In addition, the Medical Board of California can advise you as to whether or not you might be eligible for licensure through reciprocity. It is always a good idea to contact them directly when moving from one regulated state to another.
I live in San Diego, CA and there are no optical assistant/optician schools or programs offered in this area. I know that Penn Foster College offers an Optician Program online and so does CA State Univ San Marcos. Do you know if either of these online programs would be accepted from an optometry/ophthalmic practice who is hiring entry level optical assistants/opticians?
Marcie,
Since there are very few traditional degree programs available for Opticians in the United States, most employers will accept credentials that include an apprenticeship and/or an online training program. The state of California does require opticians to become licensed and all employers will expect you to be registered with the state. Aside from licensure, expectations can vary widely among employers and it is a good idea to contact them directly to learn more about job openings.
I work as an optical technician and completed 4 years of training in Nigeria. I was wondering if there are any online programs that you can recommend.
Oludayo,
We do not currently endorse any of the online programs that are offered for opticians. In order to become a successful optician, it is important for individuals to receive instruction in both a classroom and clinical setting. Most online programs fall short of providing the kind of comprehensive education that employers value.
Aloha,
Aside from the books and tool kits from Amazon, are there not any online courses that I can take to become an optician in California? I recently was hired by an optometrist and would like to become an optician by next year. Any suggestions?
Che,
We currently do not endorse any of the online optician programs that are offered. In California, you may want to consider the program that is offered through American Career College or try to find an apprenticeship opportunity. The books found on our resources page are excellent when used to prepare for the ABO Certification Exam and many opticians pass the exam without formal education.
I live in central California and there isn’t any training school or classes offered nearby, I was wondering if there are books for purchase to prepare me for the state optician exam?
Charles,
There are a few books that we highly recommend for certification exams and as clinical resources throughout your career. The books that we typically suggest can be found on the training resources page. Each of these books has received positive reviews and seem to be the most helpful for those wanting to enter the profession or improve their clinical skills.
I was wondering if there are optician tool kits that would allow me to bundle my purchase? Thank You.
Mohammad,
There are a number of bundled optician tool kits available on amazon. This link will take you to a page that offers a variety of kits. This approach is an excellent way to make sure you have all the tools you need and save some money at the same time.