The NBEO optometry examination process is the critical final step in becoming a licensed eye care professional in the United States. Our comprehensive NBEO practice test suite is designed to help students master the complex material covered in Part 1 (Applied Basic Science), Part 2 (Patient Assessment and Management), and Part 3 (Clinical Skills).
Success on the NBEO exam requires more than just memorization; it demands a deep understanding of optometric principles and clinical decision-making. Whether you are preparing for the rigorous written sections or the hands-on clinical evaluation, our free resources provide the targeted practice you need to pass your NBEO boards with confidence.
Passing all parts of the NBEO exam is mandatory for optometry licensure in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The NBEO Part 1 Applied Basic Science exam is often considered the most challenging hurdle for students.
Prepare for the NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
This NBEO study guide breaks down essential information about the exam structure, registration, and scoring. Use these tabs to quickly find answers about the NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 examinations.
Injections Skill Examination for specific state requirements.
Review the NBEO drug list carefully for Part 1, as pharmacology questions often require knowledge of specific mechanisms and side effects.
Estimated score calculation
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
Your Score: 105 correct ✓ PASS
The total cost for the core NBEO boards (Parts 1, 2, and 3) is approximately $2,435, not including travel to Charlotte for Part 3.
Passing the NBEO optometry exam opens doors to various specialties and practice settings.
Get ready for your NBEO optometry exam with our comprehensive practice questions.
While the NBEO exam itself does not expire, state licenses require renewal. NBEO certification is the initial step, but maintaining your license involves continuing education (CE).
Check your state board's requirements for CE credits, as they vary. The NBEO website also provides resources for continued competence.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Validates your knowledge and skills objectively | Study materials can be expensive |
| Increases job market competitiveness | Exam anxiety can affect performance |
| Provides structured learning goals | Requires dedicated preparation time |
| Networking opportunities with other certified professionals | Retake fees apply if you don't pass |
Try these questions from our free NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
Which test is used to distinguish a functional (non-organic) visual field loss from a true organic field defect?
Answer: A. Confrontation testing with varying distances showing a tubular (non-expanding) field
In functional vision loss the visual field does not expand appropriately with distance (tubular field), whereas a true scotoma subtends a consistent visual angle at any test distance.
Which test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in wet AMD?
Answer: A. Fluorescein angiography
Fluorescein angiography remains the gold standard for detecting and classifying CNV, showing leakage patterns that distinguish classic from occult membranes.
The Jackson crossed cylinder subjective test begins with a -1.00 -1.75 x 090 lens in front of a patient's eye. If the correcting cylinder power is changed to -0.75 x 090, then the spherical power should now be:
Answer: B. -1.50 DS
Explanation: In the Jackson crossed cylinder subjective test, when the correcting cylinder power is changed from -1.00 -1.75 x 090 to -0.75 x 090, the spherical power should be adjusted in the opposite direction. Since the cylinder power is being reduced by 0.25 D (from -1.75 to -1.00), the spherical power should be increased by the same amount to maintain the patient's prescription. Therefore, the new spherical power should be -1.50 DS.
What is fluorescein staining used for in optometry?
Answer: A. To detect corneal epithelial defects, evaluate tear film stability (TBUT), and assess contact lens fitting
Fluorescein sodium dye (viewed with cobalt blue light) highlights corneal abrasions, ulcers, and epithelial irregularities, and is used for tear break-up time measurement and evaluating contact lens-cornea interaction.
Take the full NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry practice test