1. DSSSB Optometrist 2026 — Overview (DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy)
The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) has officially released Advertisement No. 02/2026 on 25th February 2026, announcing recruitment for the post of Optometrist (Post Code 09/26) under the Health & Family Welfare Department, Government of NCT of Delhi.
This is a Group C, Non-Ministerial, Non-Gazetted permanent government post — a rare and highly coveted opportunity for B.Optom graduates in India. With 15 total vacancies, this notification is one of the best government openings for optometrists in 2026.
💡Why is this post so significant? This is a permanent, pensionable central government position in Delhi. Optometrist government jobs are extremely limited in India — making DSSSB 09/26 one of the most important notifications of 2026 for every optometry professional and fresh B.Optom graduate.
🏛️Organization: Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) — Govt. of NCT of Delhi
📋Post Name: Optometrist — Health & Family Welfare Department
📌Post Code: 09/26 | Advertisement No. 02/2026
🏷️Group & Service: Group ‘C’ — General Central Service, Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial
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2. Vacancy Details — (DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy)
The total number of vacancies for the Optometrist post is 15, distributed across reservation categories as follows:
| Category | Vacancies | Description |
|---|---|---|
| UR (Unreserved / General) | 08 | Open to all candidates |
| OBC (Delhi) | 03 | Other Backward Classes (Delhi list only) |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 02 | Scheduled Caste candidates |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 01 | Scheduled Tribe candidates |
| EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | 01 | EWS certificate required |
| Total | 15 | — |
| ESM (Ex-Servicemen, incl. in above) | 01 | Included within total vacancies |
| MSP (Meritorious Sports Person) | 00 | Not applicable for this post |
PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability) Suitability- DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
| PwBD Category | Suitability |
|---|---|
| (a) Blindness & Low Vision | ❌ Not Suitable |
| (b) Deaf (D) & Hard of Hearing (HH) | ✅ Suitable |
| (c) OL, BL, LC, Dw, AAV, SD/SI (without neurological/limb dysfunction) | ✅ Suitable |
| (d) SLD, MI (Specific Learning Disability, Mental Illness) | ✅ Suitable |
| (e) Multiple Disabilities involving (b) to (d) | ✅ Suitable |
⚠️Important: PwBD candidates with visual disabilities (Blindness / Low Vision) are not eligible for this post, as the role requires visual examination skills. All other PwBD categories are eligible and get 10 years of age relaxation.
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3. Eligibility Criteria of DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
🎓 Educational Qualification (Essential)
Condition 1: Class XII (10+2) pass in Science stream from a recognized Board.
Condition 2:Degree in Optometry (4-year duration) from a recognized university.
Note: Qualifications are relaxable at the discretion of the Competent Authority for candidates otherwise well qualified.
- B.Optom / B.Sc. Optometry (4-year degree) from any recognized university — ✅ Eligible
- Diploma in Optometry only (2 or 3-year) — ❌ Not Eligible (degree required)
- Must have Science in Class XII (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Maths) — ✅ Mandatory
- No experience required — fresh graduates welcome — ✅
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India — ✅ Mandatory
✅Good News for Fresh Graduates: There is zero experience requirement for this post. If you have just completed your B.Optom degree and are within the age limit, you are fully eligible to apply.
📅 Cut-off Date for Eligibility
All eligibility conditions — educational qualification, age, experience — will be determined as on the closing date: 28th March 2026. You must hold your B.Optom degree on or before this date.
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4. Salary & Pay Scale of DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
This is a Pay Level 5 post under the 7th Central Pay Commission, which translates to a highly competitive government salary in Delhi.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale (Basic) | ₹29,200 — ₹92,300 per month |
| Pay Level | Level 5 (7th CPC) |
| Starting Basic Pay | ₹29,200/month |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ~55% of basic (as per current rates) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | 27% of basic (Delhi — X city) |
| Estimated Gross In-hand (Approx.) | ₹42,000 — ₹52,000+/month (initial) |
| Group | Group ‘C’ |
| Service Type | General Central Service, Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial |
💰Total Compensation Package: Beyond the salary, government employees in Delhi also receive medical benefits (CGHS), pension (NPS), annual increments, travel allowance, and job security — making the effective value of this position significantly higher than the stated pay scale.
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5. Age Limit & Relaxation of DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
The age limit for the Optometrist post is 21 to 30 years as on the cut-off date of 28th March 2026.
| Category | Age Relaxation | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | No relaxation | 30 years |
| OBC (Delhi) | +3 years | 33 years |
| SC / ST | +5 years | 35 years |
| PwBD (General) | +10 years | 40 years |
| PwBD + OBC | +13 years | 43 years |
| PwBD + SC/ST | +15 years | 45 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | Military service + 3 years (max 55 yrs) | 55 years |
| Meritorious Sports Persons | +5 years (OBC +8, SC/ST +10) | Varies |
| Widows / Divorced Women | Up to 35 years (SC/ST up to 40) | 35–40 years |
| Govt. Servant (Dept. Candidate) | Up to 40 years (SC/ST 45, OBC 43) | 40–45 years |
📌Note for OBC Candidates: Only OBC (Delhi) candidates listed in the GNCT of Delhi notification will receive OBC reservation benefits. OBC candidates from other states will be treated as Unreserved/General category. Your OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate must be issued on or after 01/04/2025.
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6. Exam Pattern & Syllabus of DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
The Optometrist post follows the One Tier (Technical) Examination Scheme — I-T-T. This is a single-stage computer-based test (CBT) with two sections.
Section A — General Awareness & Aptitude (100 Marks)
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 20 | 20 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 20 | 20 |
| Arithmetical & Numerical Ability | 20 | 20 |
| Test of Hindi Language & Comprehension | 20 | 20 |
| Test of English Language & Comprehension | 20 | 20 |
| Section A Total | 100 | 100 |
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Section B — Optometry Subject Paper (100 Marks)
| Details | Value |
|---|---|
| Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Marks | 100 Marks |
| Based on | Optometry subject as per B.Optom curriculum |
| Minimum Qualifying Marks | Mandatory (domain specific) |
🎯Critical Rule — Minimum Qualifying Marks: You MUST score the minimum qualifying marks only in Section B (Optometry subject). There is no separate minimum for Section A. However, the combined score of both sections is used for the final merit list.
Minimum Qualifying Marks
| Category | Minimum % |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 40% |
| OBC (Delhi) | 35% |
| SC / ST / PwBD | 30% |
| Ex-Servicemen | 5% relaxation in their category (min 30%) |
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📖 Key Optometry Topics for Section B
Geometrical Optics
Lenses, mirrors, prisms, refraction, reflection, aberrations
Visual Optics
Emmetropization, accommodation, convergence, visual acuity
Refractive Errors
Myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism, presbyopia, anisometropia
Ocular Anatomy
Structure of eye, cornea, lens, retina, macula, optic nerve
Contact Lens
Types, fitting, care, complications, keratoconus management
Binocular Vision
Strabismus, amblyopia, orthoptics, depth perception
Low Vision
Assessment, aids, rehabilitation, legal blindness
Ocular Diseases
Glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, AMD
Instruments & Equipment
Slit lamp, retinoscope, tonometer, OCT, autorefractor
Pharmacology
Cycloplegics, mydriatics, topical anesthetics, glaucoma drugs
Community Optometry
Blindness prevention, NPCB, vision screening programs
Paediatric Optometry
Neonatal, pediatric refraction, vision development
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7. How to Apply — Step-by-Step (DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy)
🌐Official Website:https://dsssbonline.nic.in
Application Fees: ₹100/- (SC, ST, PwBD, Women & Ex-Servicemen are EXEMPT)
Payment Mode: SBI e-Pay only
Step 1: Register on DSSSB Portal
Visit dsssbonline.nic.in and complete One-Time Registration (OTR). Keep your User ID and Password safely. Do NOT register multiple times — duplicate accounts lead to cancellation.
Step 2: Login & Select Post Code 09/26
Log in using your credentials and select “Optometrist — Post Code 09/26” from Advertisement 02/2026.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Enter personal details, educational qualification, category (UR/OBC/SC/ST/EWS). Double-check all details — no changes are allowed after submission.
Step 4: Upload Photo & Signature
Upload a recent colour passport photograph (white/off-white background, full face, eyes open) and your signature. Blurred photos lead to rejection.
Step 5: Pay Application Fee
Pay ₹100 via SBI e-Pay. Fees are non-refundable. SC/ST/Women/PwBD/ESM are exempted from payment.
Step 6: Submit & Print Confirmation
Submit the form and take a printout. Visit the DSSSB website regularly for exam date updates.
🚫Do NOT: Apply by post, email, or by hand. Only online applications are accepted. Applications received through any other mode will be summarily rejected. Also, once submitted, no changes to category or other details are permitted.
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8. Important Dates of DSSSB Optometrist Vacancy
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Released | 25th February 2026 |
| Opening of Online Applications | 27th February 2026 (12:00 Noon) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 28th March 2026 (11:59 PM) |
| Eligibility Cut-off Date | 28th March 2026 |
| Exam Date | To be announced on DSSSB website |
| Admit Card | To be announced on DSSSB website |
⏰Apply Early! Don’t wait for the last date — heavy server traffic on closing days can prevent you from submitting. DSSSB is not responsible for technical issues on your end. Apply well before 28th March 2026.
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9. How to Prepare for DSSSB Optometrist 2026
The DSSSB Optometrist exam is highly competitive. While there are only 15 vacancies, thousands of B.Optom graduates across India will apply. Here’s your smart preparation strategy:
📌 Step 1 — Know the Syllabus Inside Out
Section B (100 marks of pure Optometry) is the game-changer. Your B.Optom curriculum is your bible. Focus heavily on clinical optometry, optics, ocular anatomy, binocular vision, and contact lenses. These are historically the highest-weightage areas in government optometry exams.
📌 Step 2 — Practice Previous Year MCQs
Solving MCQs from previous DSSSB, AIIMS, ESIC, and state health department optometry exams will give you a strong sense of the question pattern and difficulty level. Aim to solve at least 50–100 MCQs daily.
📌 Step 3 — Strengthen Section A (General Section)
Though there’s no separate minimum for Section A, the combined score determines your rank. A strong performance in General Awareness, Reasoning, and English can give you a crucial edge over candidates with similar optometry scores. Dedicate 30–40% of your daily study time to Section A topics.
📌 Step 4 — Take Full Mock Tests
Time management is critical — 200 questions in 2 hours means just 36 seconds per question. Regular full-length mock tests will build your speed, reduce errors, and help you identify weak areas. Aim for at least 2–3 full mock tests per week in the final month.
📌 Step 5 — Join a Structured Preparation Course
Self-study alone may not be sufficient given the competition. A structured government job preparation course that covers all optometry subjects with MCQs, notes, and mock tests is the most efficient way to crack this exam.
🎓 Smart Optometry Academy
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10. Selection Process & After the Exam
Merit List Preparation
The final merit list will be prepared based on the combined marks of Section A + Section B. In case of a tie, the candidate with higher marks in Section B (Optometry subject) will be ranked higher. If still tied, the older candidate is preferred.
Normalization
If the exam is conducted in multiple shifts, marks will be normalized using the “Score Normalization Based on Deviation Method” formula published by DSSSB, to account for variation in difficulty levels across shifts.
Document Verification (e-Dossier)
Selected candidates will be required to upload their documents online in an e-dossier format. Documents to prepare include:
- Class X & XII Marksheets and Certificates
- B.Optom Degree Certificate and all year marksheets
- Category Certificate (OBC/SC/ST/EWS) if applicable — must be valid
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
- Ex-Serviceman Certificate (if applicable)
- Age Relaxation Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs as per specifications
⚠️Critical: If you fail to upload your e-dossier within the given time period, your candidature will NOT be considered and no further opportunity will be given on any ground. Keep all your documents ready in advance.
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11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is a Diploma in Optometry sufficient for DSSSB Optometrist post 09/26?
No. The essential qualification specifically requires a Degree in Optometry (4-year duration) from a recognized university. A 2- or 3-year diploma is not eligible. You must hold a B.Optom degree.
Q2. Can OBC candidates from states outside Delhi apply under OBC category?
No. Only OBC (Delhi) candidates listed under the GNCT of Delhi’s OBC notification will get OBC reservation. Candidates from OBC (outside Delhi) will be treated as Unreserved/General category candidates.
Q3. Is there any experience required for this post?
No experience is required at all. Fresh B.Optom graduates who are within the age limit (21–30 years) are fully eligible to apply.
Q4. What is the exam date for DSSSB Optometrist 2026?
The exam date has not been announced yet. DSSSB will publish the date on its official website (dsssb.delhi.gov.in). Candidates are advised to check the website regularly.
Q5. How many marks should I score to get selected?
The minimum qualifying mark in Section B is 40% for General/EWS, 35% for OBC, and 30% for SC/ST/PwBD. However, the actual cut-off for selection in each category will be much higher depending on the number of applicants and vacancies. Aiming for 70%+ is a safe target.
Q6. Is there negative marking in the exam?
Yes. There is a deduction of 0.25 marks for every wrong MCQ answer. Unattempted questions do not attract any penalty.
Q7. Can I apply for multiple posts in the same DSSSB advertisement?
Yes, you can apply for multiple posts under the same advertisement as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. However, only one application per post code is allowed.
Q8. I completed my B.Optom from a private university. Am I eligible?
Yes, as long as your university is recognized by the UGC / appropriate regulatory authority and your degree is a 4-year B.Optom program, you are eligible. Check with your university if needed.
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Ready to Begin Your Preparation?
The DSSSB Optometrist 2026 notification is a once-in-a-while opportunity. With only 15 vacancies and competition from thousands of B.Optom graduates nationwide, your preparation needs to be focused, structured, and consistent. Start today — every day of delay is a day given to your competition.
🚀Your Action Plan Right Now:
1. Apply online at dsssbonline.nic.in before 28 March 2026
2. Download the Optometry Notes & MCQs App
3. Enroll in the Gov Job Preparation Course
4. Start solving MCQs and taking mock tests every day
5. Stay updated on the DSSSB website for exam date announcements
Disclaimer: This blog is based on the official DSSSB Advertisement No. 02/2026 dated 25/02/2026. All information is subject to change as per official notifications. Candidates are advised to refer to the official DSSSB website for the most up-to-date information.
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Tags: DSSSB Optometrist 2026 | Post Code 09/26 | Government Optometrist Job | B.Optom Job | Delhi Health Department Vacancy | DSSSB Recruitment 2026
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