Vulnerable Sector Checks

As part of the registration process, applicants must submit a Vulnerable Sector (VS) check to ensure they have not been found guilty of any criminal offence in any jurisdiction, or an offence under the Criminal Code, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Food and Drugs Act. A police record check with VS screening is required as registered optometrists may work with vulnerable person(s) such as minors or elderly patients (i.e., those who are dependent on others, or may be at greater risk than the general population of being harmed by a person in a position of authority.)

Applicants must provide a VS check from:

  • their current jurisdiction
  • any past jurisdiction(s) where they have practised.

Applicants who live in Toronto:

During COVID-19, the College is providing the consent form for Toronto Police Services Vulnerable Sector Screening by email. This is only applicable to applicants who live in Toronto. Applicants who live in other Ontario jurisdictions must contact their local police service to obtain a VS check.

Toronto applicants: contact registration@collegeoptom.on.ca to receive the consent form by email. Visit the Toronto Police Services website for more information about submitting the consent form and applicable fees.

Learn more about VS checks in this FAQ.