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American Board of Opticianry (ABO) National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE)
600 questions
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About this exam
The American Board of Opticianry (ABO) National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) assesses knowledge used in entry-level opticianry and is taken by people seeking ABO certification or demonstrating competency for work in optical practice. It is a professional competency exam, not an admissions test. Employers may value the credential, but passing the NOCE does not automatically satisfy every state’s licensing requirements; state rules and scope-of-practice requirements vary.
The NOCE uses a multiple-choice format and follows the subject areas in the current ABO exam content outline. Candidates should be ready to apply optical knowledge to practical dispensing situations, including prescription interpretation, ophthalmic optics, lenses and other ophthalmic products, dispensing procedures, and ocular anatomy and physiology. Refractive errors, vision correction, light, refraction, and prisms are useful review topics. The official outline and candidate handbook are the best sources for current format and registration details.
How to prepare for the ABO NOCE
- Use the current ABO content outline to organize review, then strengthen core areas such as prescription interpretation, lens powers and transposition, refractive errors, and ocular anatomy.
- Practice applying concepts to dispensing scenarios, including how lens choices, measurements, and prism or refractive principles affect a patient’s visual correction.
- Use timed multiple-choice practice to identify weak areas, review why each answer is correct, and confirm current exam procedures in ABO’s official candidate materials.
FAQ
Who can take the ABO NOCE?
The NOCE is intended for candidates seeking ABO optician certification or demonstrating opticianry competency. Check the current ABO candidate handbook for registration and eligibility requirements, and check your state regulator separately because state licensing rules may differ.
What is the format of the ABO NOCE?
The exam is a multiple-choice assessment covering the knowledge areas in the ABO content outline. Consult the current official candidate materials for the latest details on exam delivery, timing, and registration.
What subjects should I study for the NOCE?
Review the current ABO exam outline, including ophthalmic optics, prescription interpretation, ophthalmic products and dispensing procedures, and ocular anatomy and physiology. Also practice applying concepts related to refractive errors, vision correction, refraction, and prisms.