Rhode Island is one of only twenty-three states that require optician licensing by law. State rules and regulations regarding optician training, certification, and licensing requirements are legislatively established by Rhode Island Department of Health. The following information will be relevant to you if you are wanting to be licensed as an optician in the state of Rhode Island.
Rhode Island State Opticianry Law:
No person shall conduct the business of optician in this state until he or she has passed an examination approved by the Department, and shall have registered and received a certificate of licensure.
General Eligibility Requirements:
- Not less than eighteen (18) years of age
- Of good moral character
- Graduated from a high school or hold a statement of high school equivalency
Technical Skills and Training Requirements:
- Graduated from a two (2) year school of opticianry
- Completed one (1) year of postgraduate internship under the supervision of a duly licensed optometrist or optician
Opticianry Degree Program:
Community College of Rhode Island, located in Newport, offers a two-year Associate Degree in Opticianry. Courses are delivered through a distance learning arrangement. The courses have online modules for students to complete within a specified period of time. Some courses are conducted on campus for three hours during evenings and weekends. Students are assigned to clinics where they work during normal hours. Applicants should take courses in math and science to prepare for the program.
You can learn more about the program by visiting the department website. For information on admissions, be sure to check out the admissions checklist.
Examination Requirements:
- National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) administered by the American Board of Opticianry
- Successful completion of the practical examination approved by HEALTH and the Rhode Island Board of Opticianry. (Exam is administered in May and November of each year; please contact HEALTH for registration).
Licensure by Reciprocity:
Any individual who is a citizen or legal resident of the United States and submits evidence to the state of completion of a two year apprenticeship; holds a valid license to practice in another state for at least one year; or practiced in this or any other state for a period of not less than one year; is in good standing; has previously taken and successfully passed a written examination like the National Opticianry Competency Examination shall be eligible to apply for licensure.
Fees and Forms:
- Application for Licensure, $30
State Contact Information:
Phone: (401) 222-2828
Fax: (401) 222-1272
E-mail: Submit Here
Rhode Island Board of Opticianry
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104
Providence, RI 02908-5097
I have completed all ophthalmic courses in Middlesex Community College and J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College except Contact Lenses 3 (Clinical). Is it possible to complete the same course and get a degree?
Syed,
Most colleges will require you to complete all of the courses that are part of the degree program unless they allow students to transfer credits from similar courses completed at a different institution. You will need to contact the program administrators directly to find out what their expectations are.