The short answer

Direct transfer

Applicants registered in another Canadian jurisdiction apply under CFTA labour mobility rules and do not have to pass the OEBC examination before applying to practise in BC.

Source
“I didn’t complete the OEBC examination but am currently registered to practise optometry in another Canadian jurisdiction. Do I have to pass the OEBC examination before applying to practise in BC? No. If you are registered in another Canadian jurisdiction, when you apply to BC, CFTA (labour mobility) rules apply.”
chcpbc.org/2025/03/14/nbeo-exam-not-accepted-for-optometry-licensur...

Both provinces

Licensed in AlbertaMoving to British Columbia
Licence status Licence required Licence required
Regulator Alberta College of Optometrists College of Health and Care Professionals of BC
Guide Optometrist in Alberta Optometrist in British Columbia

Steps to transfer

Not stated by the regulator Check with CHCPBC

Processing time: Not stated by the regulator Check with CHCPBC

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