Discover how internationally trained opticians can become licensed in Canada through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process. Learn about credential assessments, bridging programs, licensing exams, and provincial registration requirements to fast-track your optician career in Canada
February 10, 2025
Opticians play a crucial role in helping Canadians achieve clear vision by fitting and dispensing eyeglasses, contact lenses and other optical aids. With millions of Canadians relying on prescription eyewear, the demand for skilled opticians continues to grow. For internationally trained professionals, Canada provides a structured pathway to becoming a licensed optician through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process, which helps qualified individuals fast-track their licensing without repeating their entire education.
Once licensed, opticians can work in optical clinics, vision care centers and private practices, with some opting to run their own businesses. With salaries ranging from $45,000 to $90,000 per year, this profession offers job security and room for career advancement.
An optician is a regulated healthcare professional specializing in prescription eyewear and contact lenses. They work closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists to ensure patients receive accurate lenses based on their prescriptions.
Key responsibilities include:
Opticians work in optical stores, clinics and hospitals, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as contact lenses or low-vision aids.
Internationally trained opticians must complete the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process to have their education and experience assessed. This process determines whether candidates meet Canadian standards or require additional training before taking licensing exams.
Begin by deciding which Canadian province you wish to reside and work in. While the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR) facilitates the PLAR process nationwide, your application will start with the regulatory college specific to your chosen province. The Mutual Recognition Agreement allows licensed opticians to transfer their credentials between provinces, offering flexibility if you decide to relocate in the future.
After selecting a province, reach out to NACOR, the organization overseeing the PLAR process across most of Canada. They will guide you on initiating your application and inform you about any province-specific procedures. While initial registration steps may vary, the core PLAR process remains consistent for all applicants.
Upon application approval, you'll undertake the Competency Gap Analysis (CGA), an online assessment evaluating your skills against the national competencies required for Canadian opticians. This assessment identifies your strengths and areas needing improvement. If gaps are detected, you'll be assigned specific coursework to address them before proceeding to the national examination.
NACOR will review your CGA results and forward them to your provincial regulatory college. Subsequently, you'll receive a "Reasons and Decisions" letter detailing your assessment outcomes and any recommended actions.
If the CGA indicates areas needing enhancement, you'll be assigned bridging courses designed to elevate your skills to the standard of a new graduate from an accredited program. Completion of these courses is mandatory to qualify for the national examination.
After fulfilling any required bridging modules, you'll be eligible to sit for the National Optical Sciences Examination, a practical test administered by NACOR. Passing this exam is essential for registration as a licensed optician in Canada. Both PLAR applicants and graduates from accredited programs must succeed in this examination to practice professionally.
For internationally trained opticians, the PLAR process provides a clear and efficient pathway to becoming licensed in Canada. By recognizing previous education and work experience, this system allows skilled professionals to integrate into the workforce faster and more efficiently.
However, the licensing journey involves exam fees, training costs and registration expenses, which can be a financial challenge for many newcomers. Windmill Microlending provides low-interest loans of up to $15,000 to help cover:
Take the next step toward becoming a licensed optician in Canada. Check your eligibility today.
