A couple of schools offer distance education opportunities for this program. If you choose one of these programs, you will also need to participate in a practicum or apprenticeship at the same time.

Although not all states require certification and licensure to practice, it is very helpful for employment. Employers see certification as a sign of your knowledge and abilities. Both the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) offer testing for certification.

A registered optometric technician receives the title Opt.T.R.

Some opticianry programs offer courses in optometric technology. It's possible to combine those courses with an apprenticeship or practicum in an eye care facility. Afterwards, you can take the certification exam.

Ophthalmic technology programs also teach you to be an optometric technician. The difference in these two programs is that ophthalmic technicians may also assist ophthalmologists who sometimes perform eye surgeries.