California Optometry Law Exam

The California Optometry Law Exam (CLRE) is a crucial step for optometrists seeking licensure in the state of California¹. This computer-based exam is administered by Psychological Services, LLC (PSI), and it tests candidates’ knowledge of the laws and regulations related to the practice of optometry in California¹.

Examination Process

The examination process is straightforward and designed to be accessible for all candidates¹². Here are the steps involved:

1. Register for the CLRE on BreEZe: BreEZe is an online platform used by the Board for all licensing applications, forms, and account maintenance².
2. Review the CLRE Handbook: The handbook provides detailed information about the exam and serves as a study guide².
3. Schedule the Exam: Candidates can schedule their exam Monday–Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on a date of their choosing¹.
4. Take the Exam: The exam is computer-based and is offered at multiple test sites available statewide¹.
5. Complete the Online Application on BreEZe: Upon passing the CLRE, candidates must complete the remainder of their online application on BreEZe².

Vision Therapy

The pediatric optometrist and Pediatric Optometry

Test Sites

The CLRE is administered in various cities across California, including Anaheim, Atascadero, Bakersfield, El Monte, Fresno, Hayward, Redding, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Rosa, Ventura, Visalia, and Walnut Creek¹. Out-of-state locations are also available¹.

Application Processing Times

The processing times for applications can vary. For instance, as of June 1, 2023, the processing time for Fictitious Name Permits was 1 – 3 weeks². However, these times may increase if required items are not submitted at the time of the initial application or during Optometry School graduation periods².

Fees

The fees associated with licensure include the Biennial License Renewal fee of $451.00, the Statement of Licensure (SOL) fee of $40.00, and various other fees related to certifications and permits².

Tips for the California Optometry Law Exam

Here are some additional tips to help you prepare for the California Optometry Law Exam:

1. It’s Not Easy: The exam is challenging and requires thorough preparation. Even if you think you’ve studied enough, the exam might still surprise you with its difficulty.
2. Time is of the Essence: The exam consists of 50 questions and you only have 60 minutes to complete it. Make sure to manage your time effectively.
3. How Much to Study? A good study plan could involve studying for about 14 days before the exam. Start with 2 hours a day for the first week, then increase to 4 hours a day for the next four days, and finally, study for about 7 hours a day in the last three days.
4. Things Get Vague: The questions on the test are not always black and white. They often involve real-life scenarios, which means they are not straight from the textbook. When studying, try to apply your knowledge to practical situations.
5. Know Some Stuff Cold: There are certain topics you must know thoroughly. These include when to refer/consult/monitor, what medications you can prescribe and for how long, what your staff is allowed to do, your rights to have multiple offices, and the differences between misdemeanors, felonies, and unprofessional conduct.
6. Process of Elimination: Use the process of elimination to help you answer questions. For example, if you’re sure that a behavior is not a felony or misdemeanor, it must be unprofessional conduct.
7. Study the Long CBO Law Book: Use any study materials you get as a guide, but always reference the main CBO Law Book. It’s long, but it thoroughly explains things and helps you become familiar with law language and contracts.
8. Use Your iPad to Study: Use an app like GoodReader to search for reference law numbers, bookmark pages, highlight text, and search by keyword.
9. Dress Accordingly: Avoid bringing anything into the room except one form of identification. Don’t wear any jackets or hooded clothing as they will ask you to remove it.

Remember, if you do not pass, you cannot take the exam again for 6 months. So, study hard and ace the California Optometry State Board Exam!

Conclusion

The California Optometry Law Exam is a comprehensive and accessible process designed to ensure that optometrists practicing in California are well-versed in the relevant laws and regulations. By providing multiple test sites and a convenient online platform for registration and application, the Board of Optometry has made it easier for candidates to navigate the licensure process¹².

Follow our Facebook page for more updates

Source: Conversation with Bing, 11/4/2023
(1) Welcome to the Board of Optometry Web Site – California Laws and …. https://www.optometry.ca.gov/faqs/cbt_lawexam.shtml.
(2) Optometry Program – State of California. https://optometry.ca.gov/optometrist/index.shtml.
(3) PSI Exam Online. https://candidate.psiexams.com/catalog/fap_test_catalog_details.jsp?catalogid=378&catalog_name=ca%20board%20of%20optometry.
(4) California Optometry Law Exam Study Guide – Do My Law Exam. https://paylawexam.com/california-optometry-law-exam-study-guide/.
(5) https://candidate.psiexams.com/.