Clear guidance for your GOC registration as an optometrist or optician.
The General Optical Council (GOC) is the UK regulator for optometrists and dispensing opticians. Registering with GOC is required to practise in either role in the UK.
📋 Who needs GOC registration
- Optometrists and dispensing opticians trained outside the UK
- Professionals whose UK employer has asked for GOC registration
- Anyone comparing the GOC route against other UK healthcare regulators
Frequently asked questions
What is GOC registration?▾
The General Optical Council (GOC) is the UK regulator for optometrists and dispensing opticians. You need to be registered with GOC to legally practise in either role in the UK.
What does GOC look at when assessing my qualification?▾
GOC assesses whether your qualification and training are equivalent to UK standards for your specific role — optometrist or dispensing optician — which can involve additional exams or a period of supervised practice depending on your background.
Do I need GOC registration before starting a UK job?▾
Yes — you generally need to be on the GOC register before you can practise as an optometrist or dispensing optician in the UK, so it’s worth starting the process early.
How can Zlado help with GOC registration?▾
We help you understand which GOC pathway fits your qualification and background, and guide you through the registration steps from application to approval.