How to Become an Optician in Utah

Maybe you are interested in having a career change.

In that case, becoming an optician in Utah is a good idea if you are looking for a job in the field.

There are several rules and requirements for future opticians, so check out our guide for more information!

Optician Job Duties

Opticians play a pivotal role in guiding clients towards the ideal choice of eyewear, though it’s important to note that they do not issue prescriptions for glasses.

Daily, opticians engage in a diverse range of responsibilities, including:

• Preparing eyewear
• Fitting and adjusting eyewear
• Educating customers about eyewear issues and maintenance
• Keeping sales records
• Determining insurance co-pays
• Keeping the inventory
• Interacting with the labs that make lenses

Optician Training in Utah

Embarking on your optician training is made simple by enrolling in a program conveniently located in your vicinity.

Utah Valley University

At Utah Valley University, students can immerse themselves in a pre-optometry training program spanning several months.

This program provides the option to enter the workforce immediately upon completion.

You can meet with the staff online, and the university’s website gives you all the information you need on how to apply online.

Borough of Manhattan Community College

This community college provides a 100% online course with no set start dates, and there are no specific requirements for enrollment.

Upon completion of this course, students will be well-prepared to take the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification exam.

Otero College

Enrollment is open at any time, and no specific requirements are necessary.

However, having a high school diploma or its equivalent is recommended as the minimum requirement for the ABO exam.

Completion of the program results in obtaining a certificate.

For those seeking a degree, there’s an option to enroll in the Bridge to Bachelor’s degree, which can be selected during the initial enrollment or the first semester.

It is advisable to check with the college and the department to confirm the inclusion of the optometry program.

Meeting your chosen school’s requirements is crucial and may include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completing specific classes with a minimum grade of C
• 2 letters of recommendation
• OAT scores – not older than 5 years
• Minimum GPA of 2.75

The duration of an optician program in Utah varies, ranging from a brief 7 months to a more extended period of 3-4 years for graduate programs.

The training program encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, covering subjects such as:

• Introduction to Optometry
• Ocular Anatomy
• Systems 1: Neuroscience
• Ocular Microbiology
• Ophthalmic Imaging
• Public Health Optometry
• Glaucoma
• Physics

As an alternative, individuals also have the option to receive on-the-job training from a licensed optician, offering a practical pathway to gaining valuable experience in the field.

Certification or Licensure for an Optician in Utah

Opticians from Utah are overseen by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

This Division requires these professionals to be licensed and maintain their credentials up-to-date.

Securing a license as an optician through the Division involves a set of criteria that affirm your qualifications:

• Graduation from an ACOE-accredited program
• Passing the NBOE exam
• Submission of a comprehensive application
• Possession of CPR or Basic Life Support (BCLS) certifications
• Passing the Utah Optometry Law and Rules Exam

Additionally, undergoing the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) through the ABO is a mandatory step.

The optician exam is structured into three proficiency levels:

• Beginner,
• Intermediate
• Advanced.

At the beginner level, proficiency in tasks such as reading prescriptions, fitting and dispensing spectacles, and utilizing standard ophthalmic equipment is assessed.

Facilities commonly cover the $200 fee associated with this level.

For those aspiring to work as lens dispensers, successfully passing the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) is required.

The CLRE goes through topics like:

• Pre-fitting for lenses,
• Diagnostic fitting,
• Dispensing of lenses,
• Patient education,
• Delivery
• Follow-up

Required documentation for exam registration includes:

• Age over 18
• A high school diploma or GED
• To fill out an application
• To pay some fees
• A clean criminal record

Optician Certification Renewal

In Utah, maintaining an active optician license involves renewing it every two years during even-numbered years.

To stay current, opticians must complete 30 additional hours of education during the renewal period.

This commitment ensures that opticians remain well-versed in evolving industry standards and advancements.

Optician Salary in Utah

Utah’s regional variations impact the wage you can receive.

The median salary for opticians in Utah is $50,200 per year.

As you start your career journey, you can check out the table below for info on salaries in different regions.

Regional Salary in Utah

Optician Schools by State