WorkinUSA

Practising in the USA

Although the various States each have their own standard for optometry, they will all require that you have a OD degree from an American or Canadian university. This will mean that you will need to attend Optometry School in the USA for at least 2 years, and in some cases more. In the past, Houston University, and Waterloo in Canada have been particularly helpful to UK entrants. Americans do not recognise our degree, but give some exemptions. Neither will it help becoming a Fellow of the Academy, as this is a research based organisation and does not issue degrees that are acceptable to pass state licensing laws.
It is entirely possible that you could work as a type of pre-reg optometrist, under supervision, providing the optometrist or ophthalmologist was willing to take responsibility for you. I have heard of this happening. However, because of your unofficial status as a non licensed optometrist, the salary will almost certainly be lower.
There can also be problems obtaining a work permit.

Some FAQs

Q. Are there any ways around having to take the final 2 year university optometry course?
A. Few. The state authorities view the UK model of 3yrs + 1 as somwhat less university education, regardless of the finished product. In Ontario a post-grad degree or FCOptom ( by exam) have been accepted in lieu of the 18 months. Write to the boards in US or Canada if you can find a province or state to sponsor you.
Q. Can optometrists work in Canada or US as a contact lens fitter or practitioner without taking any extra exams?
A. This varies between the state and provinces. In Ontario there are a number of ex-pat. optometrists working somewhat unsatisfactorally as dispensers/ CL fitters. They still have to satisfy the college of opticians but require no further training. The DOs like them because they do the refractions for them. There is possibly an over supply of this type of working.
Q. Can optometrists work under supervision without taking any extra exams?
A. Again varies between jurisdictions. The best bet is to work as an ophthalmic assistant for an ophthalmologist.
Q. In the US, once having qualified as a OD, what formalities are there moving from one state to another?
A. Once you have the NBEO or CEO boards the process is easier, some have reciprocity with each other but you have to investigate this on an individual basis. It is my impression that most of us would have difficulty in negotiating the board exams without a year or so update on the current curriculum.