How to Become an Optician in New Jersey

Opticians are trained in the use of diagnostic equipment.

Opticians dispense and provide ophthalmic devices such as eyeglasses and lenses to correct defects in vision. Opticians differ from optometrists; opticians are not medical physicians. Opticians are trained in diagnosing vision deficiencies. You must meet minimum educational requirements and be licensed by the state of New Jersey to provide optical services to patients. Opticians are also often members of professional associations such as Opticians Association of America.

Instructions

1. Complete the necessary educational and apprentice requirements. Opticians practicing in the state of New Jersey must have obtained a high school diploma, must hold an associate degree in ophthalmic science or its equivalent and must have served at least four months as an apprentice ophthalmic dispenser under the supervision of a licensed ophthalmic dispenser. Completion of a 36-month apprenticeship program, including board-certified classes, may substitute for the associate degree requirement.

2. Complete an application with New Jersey's State Board of Examiners of Ophthalmic Dispensers and Ophthalmic Technicians. Submit a completed application form including the application fee, your name, address, Social Security number and birth date, copies of educational diplomas, proof of apprenticeship, personal references and affidavit from you and your employer. The completed application must be notarized.

3. Pass the New Jersey State Board examination to obtain your ophthalmic dispenser's license.

4. Complete the required continuing education classes to keep your license valid. Opticians are required to complete a minimum of 12 credit hours of continuing education every two years. Three of these credit hours must be in the area of contact lenses.

Tips & Warnings

• You must follow all of the guidelines established by New Jersey's State Board of Examiners of Ophthalmic Dispensers and Ophthalmic Technicians.

References

• The State of New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety: State Board of Examiners of Ophthalmic Dispensers and Ophthalmic Technicians
• The State of New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety: Ophthalmic Dispensers and Ophthalmic Technicians Laws
• Degree Directory.org: Optician; 5 Steps to Becoming an Optician
• Opticians Association of America

Resources

• New Jersey Office of Consumer Affairs: Application for Registration as a Temporary or Apprentice Ophthalmic Dispenser or Ophthalmic Technician