Florida Apprentice Contact Lens Certificate Program

The Professional Opticians of Florida (POF) offers a comprehensive 32-hour Contact Lens Certificate Program that meets and exceeds Florida’s Apprenticeship Training Requirements for apprentices sponsored by a non–Board Certified optician, in accordance with Florida Administrative Rule 64B12-16.003.
Designed specifically for Apprentice Opticians in Florida, this program combines flexible online learning with immersive, hands-on clinical training led by experienced contact lens professionals.
Program Overview
Total Training: 32 Hours
- 13 hours of self-paced online instruction
- 19 hours of live, hands-on clinical training
This blended format allows apprentices to build a strong theoretical foundation before applying those skills in a supervised clinical setting.
Part 1: Online Instruction (13 Hours)
Available in advance of the clinical workshop
Part 1 delivers essential contact lens theory through thoughtfully structured online modules. Apprentices may complete the coursework at their own pace, ensuring readiness for the in-person clinical experience in Part 2.
Part 2: Live Clinical Workshop (19 Hours)
Palm Harbor, FL — POF’s West Coast Better Vision 2026 Event
Part 2 is an intensive three-day clinical workshop focused on real-world application. Apprentices will spend 19 hours working directly with highly skilled contact lens instructors, gaining hands-on experience in contact lens fitting, evaluation, and patient care.
Important Registration Reminder
To be eligible for the clinical workshop, participants must register for the Certificate Program and complete all 13 online hours (Part 1) by:
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Registration & Pricing
Discounted POF Member Rate: $425
Includes a complimentary one-year POF Apprentice Membership
Learn More & Register
For additional information or to register for the Apprentice Contact Lens Certificate Program, visit:
POF.org/apprentice

Register Now
MORE on the Florida Apprentice Contact Lens Certificate Program
West Coast Better Vision
Hosted at Innisbrook Golf Resort & Spa
Innisbrook Golf Resort & Spa features four championship golf courses, including the famed Copperhead Course, host of the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship. Nestled among rolling hills and serene lakes, the resort offers an ideal setting for education, relaxation, and recreation.
Resort Accommodations
Special Rate: Hotel rooms only $139/night & $40 resort fee
Resort amenities include:
- On-property transportation
- Free Parking
- Gated security
- Non-motorized bicycle access
- Six swimming pools
- Fitness center
- Miniature golf
- Driving range (includes one free bucket of balls)
- Tennis court access
- Salamander Spa and multiple dining options

Address:
36750 US Highway 19 North
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
72 Hr Cancellation Policy
Book Hotel
Room reservation deadline: May 1, 2026
Cancellation Policy
- Cancel for any reason and receive 100% credit toward a future POF event.
- Cancellations at least 2 weeks prior: credit applied to your POF account.
- Cancellations within 2 weeks: registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Special Accommodations
In accordance with the ADA, accommodations are available upon request.
Please call 850-201-2622.
Pre-registration and 7 days’ written notice are required.