Dispensing optician

Dispensing opticians supply glasses and contact lenses and advise customers on vision care. They use an optometrist's prescription to help people choose eyewear, take measurements and fit or adjust frames.

These are approximate UK figures for guidance only, not guaranteed salaries. Pay varies by employer, location and experience. Source: National Careers Service, checked November 2026 (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/dispensing-optician).

1. Build English, maths and science qualifications
2. Choose an approved degree or Level 6 degree apprenticeship
3. Complete professional training and qualifying exams
4. Register with the General Optical Council

The university route is a General Optical Council approved degree plus the Association of British Dispensing Opticians qualifying exams, usually needing 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 including English, maths and science, plus 1 or 2 A levels including a science. A Dispensing Optician Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship may be available with an optician employer, taking 3 years. If you already work in an optician practice as an optical assistant or technician, your employer may support you through an apprenticeship or part-time degree. You need General Optical Council registration and enhanced background checks.

Routes vary. Always check entry requirements with course providers, employers and the relevant professional body.

Usually required

Main routes in: GCSE, A levels, Degree, Apprenticeship.

• English
• Maths
• Science

• Customer service
• Clear communication
• Practical hand skills
• Attention to detail
• Numeracy
• Analytical thinking
• Teamwork
• Computer skills

• Optical retail
• Health centres

Your day could include talking through frames, taking face measurements, adjusting or repairing glasses and showing customers how to put in and take out contact lenses. You may give advice on common eye conditions or refer someone to an optometrist for more tests. Work is usually in a shop or health centre. The National Careers Service lists 37 to 40 hours a week, with weekend rota work possible.

With experience you could supervise trainees, train as a contact lens optician, work in a hospital or teach. Other options include studying to become an optometrist or running your own practice.