Insight

Introducing the Inactive Class: A New Path for Opticians in Transition

Are you hoping to maintain your professional standing with the College while you’re not actively practicing as an optician? Maybe you’re on maternity or health leave, you’re retired or you’re simply no longer practising at the moment. This blog is for you as we outline the College’s new Inactive class, effective July 1st as part of the recent Registration Regulation changes. We also break down the impact these changes will have on administratively suspended opticians.  

Inactive class: What you need to know 

The Inactive class is designed to accommodate individuals who are not currently practicing but wish to maintain their professional standing.  

Through this new class: 

• renew annually but pay 1/3rd of the active class registration fee.  
• there’s no requirement for professional insurance  
• you can remain in the Inactive class for an indefinite period 
• you can return to active practice when you choose (subject to meeting the criteria outlined in the College's policies). 

Are you administratively suspended for not renewing your certificate? You’ll also be impacted by the regulation changes coming into effect on July 1st. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

1. There’s a one-year transition period in effect until July 1st, 2025, to help support opticians through the transition period. 
2. Before July 1, 2025, you can jump straight to the Inactive class. 
3. After July 1, 2025, you won’t be eligible to join the Inactive class. You’ll need to first reinstate as a Registered Optician, pay all of the applicable fees, provide proof of insurance and meet the registration requirements in place at that time.

Be proactive and plan ahead! Transition to the Inactive class to avoid having your certificate revoked.   

Please note: As of July 1, 2025, administratively suspended opticians who don’t reinstate their certificate within three years from the date of your suspension will have their certificate automatically revoked. 

Why the change? 
The introduction of the Inactive class acknowledges the diverse career paths within opticianry and provides a structure that supports opticians through different phases of their professional lives. It is all part of the College's broader mandate to serve and protect the public interest. 

Learn more about the upcoming Registration Regulation changes. 

Transitioning between classes 

We have clear guidelines for individuals in the Inactive class who later decide to resume active practice. These guidelines are detailed in the Reinstatement and Changing from Inactive to Active Practice Policy, ensuring a smooth transition that upholds professional standards.   

Questions or need to change your registration status?  

Contact Anna Jeremian, Director, Registration and Fitness to Practice at ajeremian@collegeofopticians.ca