Quick Links

• CPO™, CPOA™,
  CPOT™ Application
• CPOT™ Practical Application
• CPOC™ Application
• Recertification
• Exam Schedule
• CPC Directory
• PTC
• Approved Education List
• Tools/Services
• Annual Reports
• Newsletters
• FAQ's
• Contact CPC

Certified Paraoptometric (CPO)

CPO^TM - A person who has attained national recognition via certification by demonstrating an understanding of the concepts used in optometric care

Click for 2012 CPO^TM Candidate Handbook

Click for 2012 CPO^TM Application

Click for 2012 CPO^TM Sample Test Questions

What tasks does a Certified Paraoptometric(CPO^TM) perform?

The CPO^TM typically carries out a wide variety of front desk procedures such as scheduling appointments, recalling patients, handling insurance forms, accepting payments, and screening telephone calls. They may also be trained in the different styles of eyewear, frame repair and adjusting, office materials purchasing and other duties of a non-technical nature.

Eligibility includes that applicants have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent and that the candidate has at least six months of experience in the eye care field.

What's the examination about?

The CPO^TM examination consists of 100 multiple choice questions related to basic science, clinical principles and procedures, ophthalmic optics and dispensing, and professional issues.

What content do I need to study?

The following outline includes a brief explanation of the areas covered on the CPO^TM examination (refer to the CPO^TM Handbook for Candidates for the full outline).

Basic Science (29%) – Anatomy, Common Eye Disorders, Terminology, Surgery, and Basic Pharmacology

Clinical Principles and Procedures (37%) – Eye Examination, Refractive Status, and Contact Lenses

Ophthalmic Optics and Dispensing (22%) – Ophthalmic Prescriptions, Ophthalmic Lenses, and Ophthalmic Dispensing

Professional Issues (12%) – Eyecare Specialists and Ancillary Personnel and Practice Management

NOTE: Refer to the CPO™ Candidate Handbook for eligibility and fees.