Quick Links

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

Recertification

Rationale
Recertification in a specialty area through maintenance of continuing education requirements and helps professionals remain current in the field and aware of recent development in research, theory and practice. Certification renewal indicates adherence to the expected levels of standards of professional growth. Recertification shows that a professional is up to date and at the leading edge of developments in the profession. Recertification is a commitment to careerlong learning. The principle of lifelong learning is central to maintenance of competence and, by extension, to ensuring the public can expect high professional standards from their optometric assistants.

Purpose of Renewal
The Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) renewal program ensures certified paraoptometrics remain current in optometric assisting skills and knowledge. The purpose of recertification is to ensure that certified paraoptometrics maintain their competence to practice by increasing their knowledge, encouraging interaction with peers and meeting professional standards.

Participation and General Requirements Option 1: Those who hold a designation of CPO™, CPOA™ or CPOT™ must participate in continuing education activities and report such activities to the CPC every three years. They must earn a minimum of 18 hours every three years.

Those certificants who hold a designation of CPOC™ must participate in continuing education activities and report such activities to the CPC every three years. A minimum of 9 hours every three years must be earned.

Option 2: Certificants can recertify by applying, paying, and successfully passing the examination of the current designation due for renewal prior to the renewal date.

Failure to meet one of these requirements will result in loss of CPC designation.

Appeals Procedures - Extensions and Exemptions
Any applicant may make a written appeal of any decisions made by the CPC relating to renewal compliance. In the appeal, an applicant may: seek an extension of time to complete the CPC renewal requirements, or seek a partial exemption from the requirements. All requests for extensions must be received by the CPC Administrator no later than November 15 in the year in which the renewal is due.  All appeals must be addressed to the CPC administrator in writing within 30 days of notification of not having complied with CPC requirements. The CPC reviews and acts on all appeals.

Exemptions
An appeal in writing may be sent to request a partial exemption from CPC renewal requirements. An exemption allows the CPC to waive part or all of the requirements when there is an undue hardship, incapacity or disability or other extenuating circumstances. Supporting documents must accompany the written request to provide justification.  All requests for exemptions must be received by the CPC Administrator by the November 1 renewal deadline.

Click for CPO™, CPOA™, and CPOT™ Renewal Requirements
Click for CPOC™ Renewal Requirements