The theoretical intensity profile of a phase shift and absorption Fresnel lens in a thin‐film waveguide has been calculated. An experimental lens has been constructed withF=5 and a focal length=4 mm using CeO deposited on a BaO waveguide. A 3‐dB spot size (full width half‐maximum) of 3 &mgr;m was obtained compared to a diffraction‐limited spot size of 2 &mgr;m from theory. Efficiency is approximately 25% and a variation of less than 3 dB in peak intensity is observed over incident angles of up to ±15° from normal.