For Consumers
- How can I get a copy of my eyeglass prescription?
- How can I get a copy of my contact lens prescription?
- What if I have problems with the Contact Lens prescription (s) that I received from a mail order supplier?
- What can I do if my prescription is expired?
For Licensees
- How long will it take to receive my license?
- How do I become DPA or TPA Certified?
- I received my renewal form and it said I am supposed to give the Board information about all the places at which I "regularly practice." What does this mean?
For Consumers
How can I get a copy of my eyeglass prescription?
Massachusetts state law mandates that an Optometrist give patients upon request, a copy of their prescription unless it is expired.
How can I get a copy of my contact lens prescription?
State law mandates that Optometrists provide patients upon request, a copy of their finalized, unexpired contact lens prescription. To finalize a contact lens prescription, the Optometrist generally requires an initial evaluation followed by one or more follow-up office visits.
What if I have problems with the Contact Lens prescription(s) that I received from a mail order supplier?
A form has been developed by the Association of Regulatory Boards of Optometry (ARBO) to report such a problem (s). Please refer to the following ARBO link to download the form: www.arbo.org/arbo.asp?dt=R&doc=Complications
- What can I do if my prescription is expired?
An expired prescription usually indicates it is time to have another eye examination by your chosen eyecare provider. Optometrists are not required to provide patients with expired prescriptions. You are entitled to a copy of your record if you plan to go to another provider. An examination record is not a written prescription, and most Optometrists require written authorization for you to obtain it. The Optometrist can charge a small fee for this service.
For Licensees
How long will it take to receive my license?
A licensed letter is issued within two to three weeks after taking and passing the Jurisprudence examination. You will receive your actual wallet license within 3 to 4 weeks.
How do I become DPA or TPA Certified?
Please visit the Application and Forms section of the Board's web site. The
DPA and TPA Certification Information 
, and both the
DPA
and
TPA
Certification Applications.
I received my renewal form and it said I am supposed to give the Board information about all the places at which I "regularly practice." What does this mean?
A location at which you "regularly practice" is one where you are scheduled or expected to appear. This does not refer to the office of an optometrist friend at which you may have filled in once or twice in an emergency. It does refer to any office at which you have a standing engagement, however infrequent.
Examples of regular practice include: any site at which patients make appointments to see you; an office that employs you one day per month; a practice you cover while the regular optometrist is on vacation; your weekend optometry job; any branch offices you run.
Fill out the
Notice of Office Location
form required by the Board.