The following is meant to serve as a guide to help new optometry graduates obtain the proper information to complete the licensing application for their optometry license based on state.
An optometry license granted by each state’s regulatory board of optometry must be obtained upon graduating from an accredited optometry school for optometrists to practice in the United States legally. Obtaining an optometry license varies from state to state regarding fees, requirements, and application processes.
Effective August 24, 2024, the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Part III Clinical Skills Examination (CSE) will be replaced by the Patient Encounters and Performance Skills (PEPS) examination. Read more about the new NBEO Part III exam format here.
Note: Fees are approximations. There may be additional fees or different fees for obtaining fingerprinting if not residing in the state you are applying for an optometry license. There may also be other fees associated with obtaining documents, having scores and/or transcripts sent, or notarizing documents. In all cases, make sure to confirm the fees, requirements, and deadlines with your state board.
This guide was updated on March 22, 2024. Any changes to state licensure requirements occurring after this date may not be accounted for.
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