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Become Board Certified
Certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology is a voluntary process, and is the last step in a long and intensive educational experience designed to assure quality eye care for the American people. Certification is granted to ophthalmologists who successfully complete an accredited course of education in ophthalmology and an evaluation including an examination process. The Board certification process includes two examinations: a
written qualifying examination
and an oral examination.
- The certification application and examination process requires a minimum of one and one-half to two years to complete, during which time the candidate is usually in clinical practice or in a fellowship program acquiring advanced training in one of the subspecialties of ophthalmology.
- Candidates may apply for Board certification 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 September 1 with a $300 late fee.
- A candidate who successfully passes both the written qualifying and oral examinations becomes a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology.
- Since 1992, certificates issued by the Board are valid for a period of ten (10) years (expire December 31 of the tenth year after issue).
- In order to maintain Board Certification for subsequent 10 year cycles, Diplomates are required to satisfactorily participate in the maintenance of certification process.
- Certificates issued prior to July 1, 1992 are valid during the Diplomate's lifetime. Diplomates who hold a non-time-limited certificate are encouraged to voluntarily participate in the maintenance of certification process.
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