NBEO Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The NBEO optometry examination process is the critical final step in becoming a licensed eye care professional in the United States. Our comprehensive NBEO practice test suite is designed to help students master the complex material covered in Part 1 (Applied Basic Science), Part 2 (Patient Assessment and Management), and Part 3 (Clinical Skills).
Success on the NBEO exam requires more than just memorization; it demands a deep understanding of optometric principles and clinical decision-making. Whether you are preparing for the rigorous written sections or the hands-on clinical evaluation, our free resources provide the targeted practice you need to pass your NBEO boards with confidence.
Passing all parts of the NBEO exam is mandatory for optometry licensure in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The NBEO Part 1 Applied Basic Science exam is often considered the most challenging hurdle for students.
Free NBEO Practice Tests
Our free NBEO practice test modules are designed to simulate the actual exam environment for both Part 1 and continued professional development. Use these resources to identify your strengths and weaknesses before test day.
NBEO Exam Flashcards
Quick review for NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3
NBEO Exam Study Guide
This NBEO study guide breaks down essential information about the exam structure, registration, and scoring. Use these tabs to quickly find answers about the NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 examinations.
| What is the NBEO exam? | The NBEO exam is the three-part national licensing examination for optometrists in the US. Passing NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 is required for state licensure. |
| Who takes the NBEO test? | Optometry students and graduates from accredited schools take the NBEO test to obtain their license to practice. |
| What is TMOD in NBEO? | TMOD stands for Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease. It is a separate score derived from the NBEO Part 2 exam. |
| Where is NBEO Part 3 held? | The NBEO Part 3 clinical skills exam is held exclusively at the National Center of Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO) in Charlotte, NC. |
| What is on NBEO Part 1? | NBEO Part 1 covers Applied Basic Science (ABS), including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and optics. |
| How many questions are on NBEO Part 2? | NBEO Part 2 (PAM) consists of approximately 350 questions based on clinical cases. |
| What is NBEO Part 3? | NBEO Part 3 (PEPS) is a practical exam assessing clinical skills like refraction, biomicroscopy, and injections. |
| How long is the NBEO Part 1 exam? | The NBEO Part 1 exam is administered over two sessions totaling approximately 7.5 hours of testing time. |
| How do I register for NBEO? | You can register for the NBEO exam through the official NBEO website. Registration typically opens 4-6 months before the test date. |
| What is the NBEO exam cost? | NBEO exam fees are approximately $725 each for Part 1 and Part 2, and $985 for Part 3. |
| When are NBEO exam dates? | NBEO exam dates are scheduled annually, with Part 1 usually in March and August, and Part 2 in December and April. |
| Can I reschedule my NBEO test? | Yes, you can reschedule your NBEO test date, but fees may apply depending on how close to the exam date you make the change. |
| What is a passing score for NBEO? | The passing score for NBEO exams is a scaled score of 300. |
| When are NBEO scores released? | NBEO score release dates vary, typically occurring 4-6 weeks after the exam administration. |
| What is the NBEO pass rate? | The NBEO pass rate varies by part and year, generally ranging from 70% to 85% for first-time takers. |
| How do I check my NBEO results? | You can check your NBEO results by logging into your account on the NBEO website. |
| What is the average optometrist salary? | The average optometrist salary in the US is approximately $125,000 per year, though this varies by location and practice type. |
| Do NBEO scores affect salary? | NBEO scores generally do not affect salary directly; licensure is the key requirement for employment. |
| What is the salary for a residency-trained optometrist? | Residency-trained optometrists may earn higher starting salaries, particularly in specialized medical settings. |
| Is optometry a growing field? | Yes, the demand for optometrists is expected to grow as the aging population requires more vision care services. |
NBEO Test Format
The NBEO structure is divided into three main parts, plus specialized standalone exams. Understanding the content of NBEO Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 is crucial for effective preparation.
Applied Basic Science tests fundamental optometric knowledge.
- Topics: Ocular anatomy, disease, pharmacology
- Questions: ~350 Items
Patient Assessment and Management focuses on clinical cases.
- Topics: Disease management, clinical thinking
- Questions: ~350 Items
Patient Encounters and Performance Skills tests hands-on ability.
- Topics: Clinical skills demonstration
- Questions: 4 Stations
Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease (standalone or embedded).
- Topics: Ocular disease treatment
- Questions: ~100+ Items
Laser and Surgical Procedures Examination for advanced states.
- Topics: Laser procedures, surgical skills
- Questions: Varies
Injections Skill Examination for specific state requirements.
- Topics: Injection techniques
- Questions: 1 Station
Review the NBEO drug list carefully for Part 1, as pharmacology questions often require knowledge of specific mechanisms and side effects.
NBEO Score Calculator
Estimate your score based on NBEO Part 1 practice questions.
NBEO Salary Information
Optometrists who pass the NBEO exam and obtain licensure enjoy strong earning potential and career stability.
| Practice Setting | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate | $130,000 | $10,833 | Entry-Level |
| Hospital/OD-MD | $140,000 | $11,666 | Mid-Career |
| Private Practice | $120,000 | $10,000 | Associate |
| Academic | $105,000 | $8,750 | Faculty |
| Practice Owner | $180,000+ | $15,000+ | Experienced |
With a NBEO certification, optometrists are in high demand across the country, especially in medical optometry settings.
NBEO Registration Process
The journey to passing the NBEO exam begins during optometry school. Follow this timeline to ensure you complete all requirements for licensure.
- Create NBEO Account - Visit the NBEO website to create your candidate profile and obtain your OE Tracker number.
- Register for Part 1 - Register for the NBEO Part 1 Applied Basic Science exam during your third year of optometry school.
- Schedule with Pearson VUE - Book your testing appointment for Part 1 and Part 2 through Pearson VUE centers.
- Register for Part 2 - Sign up for the NBEO Part 2 Patient Assessment and Management exam in your fourth year.
- Book Part 3 at NCCTO - Schedule your Part 3 Clinical Skills exam in Charlotte, NC. Slots fill up quickly.
- Check Score Release - Monitor your account for NBEO score release dates to confirm you passed.
- Apply for Licensure - Submit your official NBEO scores to your state board for licensure application.
NBEO Test Costs
Budgeting for the NBEO exam is essential, as the costs for each part are significant. Below is a breakdown of the current fees.
The total cost for the core NBEO boards (Parts 1, 2, and 3) is approximately $2,435, not including travel to Charlotte for Part 3.
NBEO Career Opportunities
Passing the NBEO optometry exam opens doors to various specialties and practice settings.
NBEO Testing Contacts
For questions about NBEO registration or scores, contact the National Board directly.
Many NBEO optometry candidates begin their job search during their final year. Utilize your school's career center and online optometry job boards.
NBEO Test Day Checklist
Start Your NBEO Prep
Get ready for your NBEO optometry exam with our comprehensive practice questions.
FREE NBEO PRACTICE TESTNBEO Renewal Requirements
While the NBEO exam itself does not expire, state licenses require renewal. NBEO certification is the initial step, but maintaining your license involves continuing education (CE).
Check your state board's requirements for CE credits, as they vary. The NBEO website also provides resources for continued competence.
NBEO Exam Questions and Answers
You can access your NBEO login by visiting the official NBEO website and entering your username and password. This portal allows you to register for exams and view your NBEO scores.
The NBEO pass rate for Part 1 typically ranges from 70% to 85% for first-time takers. Pass rates for Part 2 and Part 3 are generally slightly higher.
NBEO score release usually occurs 4-6 weeks after the exam date. You will be notified via email when your scores are available in your portal.
Yes, the NBEO drug list is a crucial resource for Part 1. It outlines the pharmaceuticals you are expected to know for the exam.
NBEO PEPS stands for Patient Encounters and Performance Skills. It is another name for the Part 3 Clinical Skills examination.
To register for NBEO, log in to your account, select the exam part you wish to take, and pay the registration fee. Ensure you meet the deadlines to avoid late fees.
Part 1 and 2 are taken at Pearson VUE centers nationwide. Part 3 is held only at the NCCTO in Charlotte, NC. Check the website for NBEO testing center locations near you.
Yes, if you do not pass, you can retake the NBEO exam. However, there are limits on the number of attempts and waiting periods between retakes.
NBEO Part 1 scoring is scaled, with a score of 300 required to pass. The exam assesses your knowledge of basic science applied to optometry.
NBEO registration costs approximately $725 for Part 1 and Part 2, and $985 for Part 3. Prices are subject to change, so check the official site.