Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I am an internationally trained optician or optometrist. Can I complete PLAR to become licensed as an optician in Canada?

Yes, internationally trained eyecare professionals can apply for PLAR. You must still take the CGA and complete any assigned bridging.

Question: How can I study for PLAR

PLAR is not something that you pass or fail; the purpose of PLAR is to evaluate your current level of skills and knowledge to help determine any areas that you need to improve on. 

If there are gaps in your knowledge and skills, you will be assigned bridging modules to upgrade. The bridging modules are available on the NACOR website and can be used as study material for PLAR.

Visit the Evaluating Your Skills page on the Become an Optician website to estimate your current level.

Question: What happens if I fail PLAR?

PLAR is not something that you pass or fail; instead, PLAR determines if your skills and knowledge meet or exceed a recent Canadian graduate for the competencies required to be an optician in Canada. If you rate Above or At on all of these competencies, you are eligible to sit the national examination(s). If you rank Below on any of the competencies, you would be assigned bridging that you must complete before you would be eligible to sit the national examination(s).

The bridging modules are available to look at on the NACOR website.

Question: How long do I have to complete the bridging modules if I have been assigned some?

You have one year to complete the bridging modules from the date they are assigned to you.

Question: After I complete PLAR, how long do I have to sit the national examination?

After you have completed PLAR, you have a period of three years to attempt the national examination(s) for the first time. You must attempt the exam in that time or you will have to complete the PLAR process again.

Question: Where can I get more information on becoming an optician in Canada?

Visit the Become an Optician website for more information.

Question: What do I need to take the CGA?

The CGA is completed online and is supervised by a NACOR staff member. To complete the CGA you need a computer with a camera and microphone and a good internet connection.

Question: Can I complete any part of the PLAR process while I am still in my home country?

Yes, you can complete the document review and CGA while you are still in your home country.

Question: After I complete PLAR do I have to take the national examinations before I can become licensed?

Yes, passing the national examination(s) is required in all Canadian provinces, except for Quebec.

For information on how to become licensed in Quebec, contact the Ordre des opticiens d’ordonnances du Quebec.

Question: Can I take the national examinations while I am in my home country?

No, the national examinations are practical exams and you must attend in person. For more information on when you can write the national exam, visit the dates and venues page.