Appropriate knowledge of French
- In accordance with the Charter of the French Language, the Ordre des optometrists du Québec may only issue a permit to practice optometry to individuals who have appropriate knowledge of French.
- Generally speaking, individuals who have completed their secondary and postsecondary education in French are, under certain conditions, presumed to have appropriate knowledge and may be issued a regular permit to practice.
- Otherwise, only a temporary permit to practice (valid for one year, but renewable) may be issued. If needed, the Ordre des optométristes will give the candidate the required information for the French exam.
- The Ordre des optométristes will determine if an exemption is possible for the French exam or each candidate.
Renewing the temporary permit
The conditions for renewing a temporary permit are the following:
- A temporary permit may be renewed only three times, with the authorization of the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF).
- The OQLF grants authorization only if it feels that the public interest warrants it (letter from an employer in Quebec in support of the candidate).
- Candidates may only apply for a renewal if they have sat for the examinations held by the OQLF, before their permit expires.
Success of the French Examinination
- Candidates who pass the French examination and gain authorization from the OQLF are issued a regular optometry permit by the Order.
- Information on the French courses offered to candidates is available on the OQLF Web site.