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MEMBER DUES
We recognize that every optometrist’s path is different. To support members at all career stages, OAO offers a flexible dues structure.
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Annual Membership Dues
These conditions provide alternative pricing for members with unique situations, offering flexibility while still supporting the programs and advocacy that benefit the profession.
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PRACTICING OPTOMETRISTS
All members who are licensed optometrists in Ontario are required to pay full OAO dues, CAO dues, and Paid Media Assessment Campaign (PMAC) fees. These contributions help fund the programs, advocacy, and resources that advance the profession.
OAO Dues CAO Dues CAO Dues Total Annual Membership Dues $1,700.00 $415.00 $700.00 $2,815.00 Additional Member Conditions
These conditions provide alternative pricing for members with unique situations, offering flexibility while still supporting the programs and advocacy that benefit the profession.
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Recent Graduates from Optometry School
Recent graduates from accredited optometry programs are eligible for reduced dues, with rates that increase gradually each year. This structure supports a smooth transition into full membership as they begin their professional careers.
Condition % of Dues OAO Dues CAO Dues Paid Media Assessment Total First year after graduation 10% $170.00 $41.50 $70.00 $281.50 Second year after graduation 25% $425.00 $103.00 $175.00 $703.75 Third year after graduation 50% $850.00 $207.50 $350.00 $1,407.50 Fourth year after graduation 75% $1,275.00 $311.50 $525.00 $2,111.25 -
Working Reduced Hours
Members on pregnancy or parental leave, working part-time with fewer than 900 hours annually, or relocating to Ontario for the first year qualify for reduced dues. This provides flexibility and support during times of transition.
Condition % of Dues OAO Dues CAO Dues Paid Media Assessment Total On pregnancy or
parental leave50% $850.00 $207.50 $350.00 $1,407.50 Practicing part-time and
reporting less than 900 hours annually75% $1,275.00 $311.50 $525.00 $2,111.25 Relocating to Ontario
from another jurisdiction, for the first year75% $1,275.00 $311.50 $525.00 $2,111.25 -
Full-time Researchers and Faculty
Full-time faculty at Ontario optometry schools or vision researchers at not-for-profit institutions qualify for reduced dues. This recognizes their academic and research contributions to advancing the field of optometry.
Condition % of Dues OAO Dues CAO Dues Paid Media Assessment Total Faculty at a school of optometry in Ontario 50% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 Vision related researcher at a not-for-profit health institution 50% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 -
Related to Retirement
Members approaching or transitioning into retirement may qualify for reduced dues based on age and years in practice. This includes part-time or fully retired members with long-term OAO membership and career contributions.
Condition % of Dues OAO Dues CAO Dues Paid Media Assessment Total Prelude to Retirement, practicing part-time as you prepare to retire 75% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 Member whose combined age and years in practice, is equal to 110 years 75% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 Member whose combined age and years in practice, is equal to 115 years 50% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 Member whose combined age and years in practice, is equal to 120 years 25% $850.00 $207.50 $0.00 $1,057.50 Retired Members (retirement registered with the College), and have held OAO membership for five consecutive years prior to retirement 10% $850.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,057.50 Member whose combined age and years in practice is equal to, or more than, 125 years No Annual Membership Dues $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,057.50
Curious about OAO membership benefits?
Browse the full list of OAO member benefits and discover how our advocacy, clinical resources, and professional development tools can support your practice.
