Information for Employers and Business Owners 

Overview

The College of Opticians of Ontario regulates the practice of opticianry to protect the public interest. While the College does not regulate businesses or eyewear dispensaries, it nevertheless serves an important role in ensuring that the dispensing of prescription eyewear is carried out in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act, the Opticianry Act, and related legislation and regulations.

Under Ontario law, only the following individuals are authorized to dispense prescription eyewear, contact lenses, or subnormal vision devices:

• A registered member of the College of Opticians of Ontario, the College of Optometrists of Ontario, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, s. 27(2)(9)).
• An optician who is registered and in good standing in another Canadian province and who qualifies to practise in Ontario for up to six months under the As of Right exemption (O. Reg. 328/25).

Individuals who employ opticians or who own or operate a business that sells or dispenses eyewear must familiarize themselves with their legal obligations under the Regulated Health Professions Act, the Opticianry Act, the Personal Health Information Protection Act, and all related legislation and regulations. Please visit the Legislation page to review.

All individuals who employ opticians or operate an eyewear-related business, should contact a qualified legal professional for advice regarding their legal obligations.