Items that must be included with your renewal package are listed below, if any of these items are not included in your renewal package or if your renewal form is incomplete, it will be returned to you. If your package is returned to you, it will slow down your registration process and could result in a late fee. So we encourage you to submit your renewal package with all information complete. Should you require assistance please contact Lynda Willey, Registration Administrator at (800) 263-6026 lwilley@albertaopticians.org


Renewal Documents

  • Renewal Form
    (you must include your current Business and Residence address in the Contact Information Section of the form or it will be returned to you. If you are non-practicing, then only your residence address is required)
  • NO PHOTO REQUIRED
    (Only new members are required to submit a photo)

  • Step by Step Guide to the Member Renewal
    (This was developed to assist you in filling out your renewal application, please refer to this document)



Professional Development Credits (Con-Ed)
Because the current cycle does not end until December 31, 2008 you still have one year left to get your required Professional Development (con-ed) credits.

You are required to get the following amount of credits:

  • Eyeglass: 20 (min 12 Eyeglass Credits)
  • Contact Lens: 35 (min 15 Contact Lens Credits)
  • Non-Practicing: you are encouraged to maintain your credits to allow an easier transition for if and when you return to practicing.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to submit a photo?
No, only new members are required to submit photos. New photos are required every five years. The last update was done in 2007.

2. As a Non-Practicing Optician do I need to complete the Self Assessment –Step 3?
The Council has decided that the continuing competency requirements including the Step 3 Self-Assessment for Non-Practicing members be waived until they register as a Practicing Member.


3. Do I have to pay the Application fee of $115.00 each year when I renew my License?
No, it is a one-time payment which is due in full upon becoming a Member.


4. What is an Undertaking Form?
It is a promise that the person signing will not dispense while they are Non-Practicing.


5. I want to pay my fees over the phone with my credit card and/or I would like to change my contact information over the phone.
To be sure that we do not make mistakes and that you are the one requesting the change or payment we need these requests in writing with a signature and license number.


6. Do I send the 2008 Errors and Liability Insurance- Opticians Association of Canada Membership Application with my renewal fees to the Alberta Opticians Association?
No, you would mail or fax the application to the Opticians Association of Canada. The information is on the bottom of the E&O Application.


7. Do I have to send in a picture if I am Non-Practicing?
Yes, we are updating all of our paper and computer files with the new Pictures.


8. Do I need Liability Insurance when I'm Non-Practicing?
No, liability insurance is not required while you are Non-Practicing; however you should check the policy to see if circumstances make it advisable.


9. What happens if I don't send in all the required documents?
The entire form will be sent back to you and we will include a list of what is missing. This delays your application and could result in a late fee if your renewal information is not completed.


10. I want to take a break from the Industry for a couple years, what should I do?
If you want to come back to the optical industry reinstatement is the same for retired or suspended. It will cost, in 2007, a fee of $524.70 including GST. We recommend that you remain and pay non-practicing fees.


11. I am an Optician in Alberta but will be working in Saskatchewan , do I need licenses in both Provinces? You must have a valid license in the province where you are practicing. If you are practicing in two provinces you mush carry a valid license for each.