To protect the health and safety of California consumers through licensing, registration, education, and regulation of Optometry and Opticianry.

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Important


Scam Alert: November 2025 – The California State Board of Optometry is aware of ongoing fraud schemes targeting licensees.


Consumer Alert: FDA warns consumers not to purchase or use EzriCare Artificial Tears, Dr. Berne's MSM Drops 5% Solution or LightEyez MSM Eye Drops – Eye Repair, due to potential contamination. FDA is warning consumers not to purchase and to immediately stop using 26 over–the–counter eye drop products due to the potential risk of eye infections that could result in partial vision loss or blindness. Patients who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection after using these products should talk to their health care provider or seek medical care immediately.


SkillBridge Update: Expedited Licensure Application Processing for Service Members Enrolled in Skillbridge.

Optometrist Program

Processing Times

  • Optometrist 1–3 weeks
  • Fictitious Name Permits 1–3 weeks
  • Letter of Verification 1–3 weeks
  • Statement of Licensure Automated in BreEZe

Please note: Processing times may increase if required items (such as transcripts, background check materials, etc.) are not submitted at the time of initial application. Incomplete applications will generate deficiency letters requiring applications to submit missing documentation. Applicants should respond promptly to avoid delay in processing times.


Optician Program

Processing Times

  • Spectacle Lens Dispenser (SLD) 1–3 weeks
  • Contact Lens Dispenser (CLD) 1–3 weeks
  • Registered Dispensing Ophthalmic Business (RDO) 1–3 weeks
  • Nonresident Ophthalmic Lens Dispenser (NOLD) 1–3 weeks

Please note: Processing times may increase if required items (such as background check materials, ABO/NCLE exam or certification information, etc.) are not submitted at the time of initial application. Incomplete applications will generate deficiency letters requiring applications to submit missing documentation. Applicants should respond promptly to avoid delay in processing times.


Governor

Governor

Gavin Newsom

California

Visit the Governor's website

Secretary

Secretary

Tomiquia Moss

Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency

View Secretary's website

Acting Director

Acting Director

Christine Lally

Department of Consumer Affairs

View Acting Director's website

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

Greg Pruden

Optometry Board

View About us page