Dispensing opticians make up prescriptions created by optometrists (ophthalmic opticians) and ophthalmologists (eye surgeons). They can fit and supply spectacles, contact lenses and other optical appliances. Dispensing opticians do not examine eyes. 

Their duties usually include:

• using apparatus to measure clients for optical aids 
• calculating distances and angles in relation to types of lens, and client measurements
• providing advice and information on types of lens, such as single vision or bifocal
• advising people on the style, weight and colour of frames
• fitting frames.

Dispensing opticians work for retail chains and run retail operations, therefore selling is also an important part of their work. Many dispensing opticians have further training which enables them to fit and supply contact lenses.

When ophthalmic opticians and dispensing opticians work in partnership, it is generally the dispensing optician who manages the business.

Hours and Environment

Dispensing opticians usually work five days a week, including Saturdays. Part-time work is often possible.

As a dispensing optician you are based in a shop environment.

Skills and Interests

To work as a dispensing optician you should:

• be able to deal with scientific and mathematical information
• be accurate and able to pay attention to detail
• be able to handle ophthalmic instruments
• have a pleasant manner and an interest in working with people
• be patient, approachable and able to deal with people confidently and sympathetically
• have business skills, especially when working in private practice
• have an understanding of style and fashion for selling spectacles and contact lenses.

Entry

To practise as a dispensing optician you need to be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). To get on to the register you need to complete a course approved by the GOC and you must pass the Professional Qualifying Examinations administered by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO).

The four ways you can study for an approved course are:

• a two-year full-time diploma course, followed by one salaried year, working under supervision
• a three-year day release course, for those in suitable employment
• a three-year distance learning course (including a four-week residential block) offered by the ABDO, for those in suitable employment
• a three-year full-time degree course in, for example, Ophthalmic Dispensing and Management, Optical Management, or Dispensing Optics.

As a student you must join the student register of the GOC before undertaking any clinical work.

Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements. The GOC hold details of approved training institutions on their website.

Entry requirements may be relaxed if you have ten years’ optical experience, for example as an optical technician or receptionist for a dispensing optician. However, you will usually still need qualifications in maths or physics.

Dispensing opticians qualified outside the UK
If you qualified as a dispensing optician in another area of the EU or EEA and wish to practise in the UK, you must have your qualifications assessed by the GOC to determine whether they conform to UK requirements. If your qualifications are accepted you should contact the ABDO for further information on how to enter the Professional Qualifying Examination.

Training

As a qualified dispensing optician you need to renew your registration with the GOC annually. From 2007, when you reapply for registration, the GOC will look for evidence of how you have maintained and developed your skills and knowledge. The ABDO have developed training opportunities which will help you meet the needs of the GOC.

You can do a range of post-registration diploma courses or specialised training programmes in, for example, areas related to contact lenses.

Opportunities

There are around 4,000 registered dispensing opticians in the UK working mainly in private practice. As a qualified dispensing optician you can also work in hospitals, in teaching, as a consultant to a lens manufacturer or sales representative selling ophthalmological instruments. There are limited opportunities in the Hospital Eye Service and in universities and colleges.

Promotion opportunities vary according to the sector you work in, or the size of the business. Many dispensing opticians hold assistant manager positions by the time they qualify. As a dispensing optician you may become self-employed and run your own business, possibly working in partnership with optometrists.

You can work overseas in this area, as many countries recognise registration with the General Optical Council.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

On registration, dispensing opticians employed in private practice can earn between £15,000 and £20,000 a year. 
With experience, this can rise to around £25,000.
Self-employed dispensing opticians may earn a salary much higher than this.

Further information

Tel: 08000 150 850
Email: learning@nhscareers.nhs.uk Godmersham Park
Godmersham
Kent
CT4 7DT
Tel: 01227 738 829 41 Harley Street
London
W1G 8DJ
Tel: 020 7580 3898