Useful information for OT online users
Firstly we would like to welcome you to the redesigned OT website; we hope you will find the new layout easier to navigate, allowing you to browse the site’s content with ease.
Below are some of the frequent questions we get asked but if we have not covered your query or you continue to have problems please contact us directly.
Why should I register with OT online?
There are a variety of reasons why you should register with OT online. Only registered users can take advantage of our FREE CET content. On top of CET, we can filter specific content that is of interest to you which will go straight into your 'My Tagged Items' for you to view each time you visit the site. This function is perfect for those busy moments when you don’t have time to browse the content freely.
I want to take a CET exam but need to register?
If you have not taken any OT CET modules with us before, you need to register with OT online first. Please register here.
Fill in the registration form and click submit. By filling in your 'Professional Interest' when registering will help us form the type of website that suits your needs. You can also opt for the site to recognise you so there will be no need to sign in on every visit.
Please ensure you type the correct details, especially your GOC registration number. If you wrongly enter your GOC number any exams taken may be void. We advise you to check the GOC website www.optical.org and click on 'Current Registrants' to ensure you provide us with the correct details.
Why do I need a password?
We ask for a password to ensure your details are secure as dictated under the Data Protection Act. Please ensure you use a strong password and use both letters and digits eg KX6782. Do not use weak passwords such as Password, Administrator, 1234, and Computer etc. Please note that passwords are case sensitive.
You will also be asked to set a password reminder; this is to help you remember what the password was you selected. If in the future you forget your password, you can click on password reminder and follow the steps to have your password emailed to you.
What should I do if I forget my password?
Click on password reminder and follow the steps to have your password emailed to you.
Please note OT staff cannot access or email you your password as the email reminder is a secure automated system.
Once you have registered with OT online, you can freely browse the site, viewing all content both current and archived as well as take all available CET modules.
Why should I sign up to a newsletter?
The newsletters have been designed to help keep you up-to-date with all the latest news and features. We have introduced a new jobs newsletter which will automatically email you as a job becomes available that matches your search criteria, giving you a potential advantage over other applicants.
What happens after I submit my results?
10 days after the printed module’s closing date (not SUBMISSION DATE), your points are uploaded using your GOC number to www.cetoptics.com (the Vantage website) who manages CET for the General Optical Council. These points will go into your 'Pending Points' area and it is your responsibility to confirm the points and move them to your 'Final Points' record on their website. You should still keep a record of all your CET points.
Why do my results get uploaded to otcetoptics.com 10 days after the closing date of the module?
If you have been awarded OT CET points, after the module closing date we log into cetoptics.com and upload the details of everyone who has taken the exam and passed at the required level and therefore gained CET points. These are then cross-referenced with the GOC register.
TIP: Use your OT 'Grade Book' on our website to keep a record of your OT CET points. You can even print certificates to show the CET points you have acquired from OT and keep them in a portfolio. We have also introduced a new CPD option for you to log your 'Learning Outcomes' in preparation of the requirement.
Have you entered the correct GOC or equivalent number?
Did you set the pull down menu box to 01-, or 02- (for GOC registered optometrists), D- (for GOC registered dispensing opticians), Irish- (for Irish Opticians Board) OS- (for Overseas) or OV- (for GOC extended users).
Do not re-enter 01-, 02-, D-, OV- or OS- or Irish- in the box requesting your number.
If you are a student, from March 2011 you will be able to take all closed exams via the new AOP Student Zone.
Have you wrongly entered your password?
Passwords are case sensitive – please make sure your CAPS LOCK button is not selected.
Has your surname changed eg through marriage?
If you can still log in with your maiden name, give us a call and we will change your surname for you. N.B Even if you have informed your professional body of a name change, they do not pass your information to third parties such as OT.
Do you have a double barrelled surname like 'Mr P. Harvey-Jones'?
In this instance, try again and log in with the surname - 'Jones' instead of 'Harvey-Jones'.
Where can I get further help?
For OT queries, please call 020 7549 2076.
For CET Optics queries, please call 0843 2085487.
