Optician Programs in Ontario, California
Becoming an Optician in Ontario, California
If you’re considering a career as an Optician in Ontario, California, you’re embarking on a path that combines healthcare, customer service, and technical skills. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, play a crucial role in helping people see better by fitting and dispensing corrective lenses. This guide will walk you through the steps to become an Optician, including education paths, local training programs, employment opportunities, and licensure requirements in California.
About Ontario, California
Ontario, California, located in San Bernardino County, is a city known for its rich history and diverse community. It is home to the Ontario International Airport and the Ontario Mills shopping center, offering a blend of suburban and urban living. For more information about the city, visit the official Ontario city website.
Optician Training Programs in Ontario, California
While Ontario itself may not have a dedicated Optician program, nearby cities offer excellent educational opportunities:
- American Career College – Ontario Campus
Located in Ontario, this college offers a comprehensive Optical Technician program that covers essential skills needed for a career in opticianry. For more details, visit the American Career College website. Mt. San Antonio College – Walnut, CA
Approximately 20 miles from Ontario, Mt. San Antonio College offers an Optical Technology program that prepares students for certification exams. Learn more at the Mt. San Antonio College website.Los Angeles City College – Los Angeles, CA
About 40 miles from Ontario, this college provides an Opticianry program focusing on both spectacle and contact lens dispensing. Visit the Los Angeles City College website for more information.
Optician Employment Opportunities in Ontario
Ontario offers various employment opportunities for aspiring Opticians:
- LensCrafters – Ontario Mills
Located in the Ontario Mills shopping center, LensCrafters is a leading optical retailer offering a range of eyewear products and services. Explore career opportunities at LensCrafters Careers. Kaiser Permanente – Ontario Medical Center
This healthcare facility includes an optical department, providing comprehensive eye care services. Check out job openings at Kaiser Permanente Careers.Visionworks – Ontario, CA
Situated in the heart of Ontario, Visionworks is known for its wide selection of eyewear and optical services. Visit Visionworks Careers for employment information.
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program in California, you typically need:
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Minimum age of 18 years, though some programs may require you to be 21.
- A clean criminal background check.
- Good interpersonal skills and a passion for helping others.
Licensure Requirements in California
In California, becoming a licensed Optician involves several steps:
- Complete a formal education program or apprenticeship.
- Pass the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE).
- Register with the California State Board of Optometry, providing necessary documentation and fees.
- Maintain a clean criminal record at both state and federal levels.
For more information, visit the California State Board of Optometry.
Licensure Reciprocity
California does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states for Opticians. However, national certifications like the ABO and NCLE can facilitate the process of obtaining licensure in other states.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Ontario, California, offers a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. With the right training and certification, you can join a growing field with numerous job prospects. Contact a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a certified Optician.
For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.