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Become Board Certified 
Since 1916, nearly 27,000 ophthalmologists have challenged themselves to meet the rigorous certification standards established by The American Board of Ophthalmology. The first medical specialty board founded in the United States, The American Board of Ophthalmology awards the only medical specialty certificate in ophthalmology recognized by both the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and the American Medical Association (AMA). Board Certification is a voluntary process designed to assure quality eye care for the American people by assessing the knowledge, skills and experience requisite to the delivery of quality patient care. It is an additional step beyond state licensure and an ophthalmologist’s extensive medical education experience. Certification is granted to ophthalmologists who meet a series of accredited medical training requirements in ophthalmology, sign a practice pledge indicating their intent to practice with compassion, integrity and respect for human dignity, and complete an intensive evaluation process which includes two examinations: a written qualifying examination and an oral examination . Physicians who meet all of the requirements for initial certification become diplomates of the Board and earn a certificate valid for a period of 10 years. Since the early 1990’s, all Diplomates have been required to actively maintain their certificate through a lifelong learning and practice improvement process currently known as Maintenance of Certification in order to extend the validity of that certificate . The Certification Timeline Candidates who meet the eligibility requirements may apply to sit for the Written Qualifying Examination following completion of residency. The application filing period runs from March to August 1 each year. The ABO also accepts late applications from August 2 through October 1 with a $300 late fee. Passing the written examination allows a candidate to progress to the oral examination, which tests clinical abilities. Upon successful completion of the Written Qualifying Examination (WQE), candidates are sent specific instructions for registering for their assigned oral examination. Oral examinations are held twice per calendar year.
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