Can Continuing Education taken before obtaining a license in Arizona be claimed?

In the context of Arizona's optometry regulations, continuing education (CE) earned before obtaining a license cannot be claimed for the purpose of meeting licensing requirements. This is because CE is intended to enhance the knowledge and skills of professionals who are already licensed to practice. The focus of these educational activities is on maintaining and improving competence in the field, which presupposes that the individual is already a licensed optometrist.

Licensing boards typically require that continuing education credits be obtained after the individual has received their license to ensure that the education is relevant and applicable to current practice standards and developments in the field. This emphasis on post-licensing education helps maintain a high standard of care and promotes ongoing professional development among practicing optometrists.

While there may be instances where specific CE activities can be considered for credit if approved beforehand, the prevailing rule is that only those courses taken after licensure are eligible for credit towards continuing education requirements. Thus, the response regarding the inability to claim CE prior to licensure aligns with the regulations governing the practice of optometry in Arizona.