We are the regulator for the optical professions in the UK

We protect the public by setting standards for education, training, performance and conduct amongst opticians in the UK

Find out more about the GOC

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You can use the opticians registers to search for an individual practitioner or a registered business.

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GOC Reception

New Standards of Practice for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians, Standards for Optical Students, and Standards for Optical Businesses came into effect from 1 January 2025.

Published at 12:00 on 02/01/2025

Latest updates

The GOC has announced that it is relocating to new premises at One Canada Square in Canary Wharf, East London in May.

Published on 31/01/2025

The GOC has approved the third specialist qualifications output of the Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education, entitled Enhancing the scope of practice in optical professionals.

Published on 29/01/2025

The GOC has decided to suspend Zeeshan Sultan, an optometrist based in Bury, from its register for six months.

Published on 14/01/2025

News and press releases

New GOC Standards launched

New Standards of Practice for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians, Standards for Optical Students, and Standards for Optical Businesses came into effect from 1 January 2025.

Published on 02/01/2025