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

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The GOC has launched its new corporate strategy. It sets out a new vision, safe and effective eyecare for all, and a new mission to protect the public by upholding high standards in eye care services.
Published at 10:00 on 01/04/2025
Latest updates
New corporate safeguarding policy
We are pleased to introduce our Corporate Safeguarding Policy, which outlines how we respond to and manage concerns about the safety and wellbeing of people at risk.
Published on 21/05/2025
GOC appoints Siddhant Majithia to its Council Associate Scheme
The General Optical Council has appointed Siddhant Majithia, an independent prescribing optometrist, as a Council Associate.
Published on 20/05/2025
GOC suspends Southampton optometrist from register
The GOC has decided to suspend Minal Thaker, an optometrist based in Southampton, from its register for four months.
Published on 12/05/2025
GOC erases Belfast based student optometrist from register
The GOC has decided to erase Sean Hughes, a student optometrist based in Belfast, from its register.
Published on 16/04/2025