License to Practice Optometry in Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists (SAO) regulates optometrists in Saskatchewan and membership in the Association is mandatory to practice optometry in Saskatchewan.
New members must complete the application (here) or found on the top right corner of our website to apply for a license with the SAO. There are two types of applications:
- New Applicant – for applicants that have not licensed/practiced optometry in another Canadian jurisdiction
- Labour Mobility – for applicants that have licensed/practiced optometry in another Canadian jurisdiction
International Applicants – for applicants that did not graduate from an ACOE Accredited Program (link to list) and have not completed the Optometry Examining Board of Canada entry-to-practice exam (https://oebc.ca/) you are not eligible to apply directly to the SAO. Please visit the Federation of Optometric Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FORAC) website https://www.forac-faroc.ca/international-applicants/ for information on the credential assessment process.
Network of Interprofessional Regulatory Organizations (NIRO)
NIRO is a Saskatchewan-based network of health regulators. In Saskatchewan, there are 27 health-related professions with the authority to regulate their profession. Saskatchewan Health and the NIRO are committed to promoting ethical and competent professional services and minimizing the risk of harm to consumers. This website provides easy access to health profession information for the public: www.nirosask.ca
Fees
The 2025 license fee of $3,195 is payable to the SAO. Your license fee includes:
| SAO *includes the FORAC & OEBC levies | $2,180 |
| Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) | $415 |
| SAO Provincial Public Education & Awareness | $600 |
| Total | $3,195 |