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The Alberta Opticians Association is the regulatory body for Opticians in Alberta. The primary purpose of the Association is protection of the public. When you graduate you must become a member of the AOA or you are practicing without a license.

Fees:
The fees for annual membership are:

- Registered Optician: $495.00 (plus GST)
- Contact Lens $495.00 + $125.00 (plus GST)
- Application Fee: $115.00 (one time payment for new members)
- Non Practicing: $135.00 (plus GST)

These fees are payable immediately after you pass the national exam. These fees will be pro-rated if you graduate in June or July. These fees must be paid in advance by December 1st of the year prior. If you are late in paying an extra charge will be levied. Currently the late fee is 10%.

Reinstatement Fee: A reinstatement fee of $495.00 (plust GST) will be applied if you are suspended. The amount you pay for your yearly fees and the amount you pay for continuing education are tax deductible since they are requirements of employment.

Non-Practicing: There is a category for non-practicing for $135.00 (plus GST). This category requires an Undertaking saying you will not practice in the province of Alberta while of non-practicing status. In order to regain practicing status you may simply pay the difference in fees.

Insurance: Errors and Omissions insurance is also required. Some employers carry insurance that covers their whole staff. If your company does you will not have to purchase it separately.This can be purchased from the Opticians Association of Canada.

Credits: The AOA has a continuing education requirement of 20 credits in three years. 12 of these must be in the EG category. You will be given prorated credits when you register. Continuing education is mandatory. When you fill out your application form, a picture is required and there is a section that must be sworn by a Commissioner for Oaths. When all requirements are satisfied you will receive a practice certificate for the year.