Q: Can foreign-trained optometrists obtain licensure in North Carolina?
A: To obtain licensure in North Carolina, foreign-trained optometrists must meet specific criteria:
Graduate from an ACOE accredited optometry school that awards a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree.
You may be able to present credentials and educational background to an accredited optometry school for advanced placement (Advanced Standing International Program), if necessary.
For more information, visit the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO).
Has successfully completed all parts of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examinations.
North Carolina requires passing scores on:
NBEO Part I, Part II, and Part III
Part II TMOD
Part III ISE
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
Past graduates must have passed all NBEO parts that were offered at the time they tested. In addition, they must have a passing score on ISE (and TMOD if it was offered when they took Part II).
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
NBEO provides a P/F along with the numeral. To meet NC requirements, all required sections must show a “P.”
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
If you did not previously pass Part III CSE before it was discontinued, you must have a passing score on Part III PEPS (which replaced the CSE).
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
No. For PEPS, you must have a passing score in each section, even if your overall PEPS result is passing:
Skills
Patient Encounters
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
Not always. Scores on a student transcript may not match the final score reported to the NC Board. Please request NBEO to release your official scores to North Carolina immediately upon submitting your application (if you didn’t do so when you tested).
*See Full Policy and details here: NBEO Requirements
No. To practice in North Carolina, you must take and pass the North Carolina licensing exam; the Board states it does not have a reciprocity/endorsement policy.
Military applicants applying for licensure under GS 93B-15.1 or 50 U.S.C. 4025a should use the Board’s Military Applicants page for the appropriate pathway and instructions.
If your application is incomplete at the Completion Deadline, you will be ineligible for the examination you applied for and your fees will be refunded, or (if you request in writing) your application may be held one time only until the next regularly scheduled examination.
If you withdraw before the Completion Deadline: you are eligible for a refund minus a $100 processing fee.
If you withdraw after the Completion Deadline: you are not eligible for a refund
Yes. The Board notes an Intern Permit is required if you are practicing in North Carolina (as anything other than a technician) prior to obtaining a license with the Board.