Application Fee
See agencyOptician Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
State of Alabama Hearing Instrument Dealers Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,570 median (24% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 35,570, Opticians in Alabama earn 24% below the national median of $46,560. Alabama ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$35,570Hourly estimate
$17.10Difference: -$10,990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | 66,250 |
| #2 | Connecticut | 64,780 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 63,810 |
| #4 | New York | 60,100 |
| #5 | California | 57,770 |
Nearby States Comparison
Optician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $35,570 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $47,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $45,640 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $56,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $35,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
State of Alabama Hearing Instrument Dealers Board
400 S. Union Street, Suite 235-B, Montgomery, AL, 36104
Phone: 3345933777
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $74,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $47,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,280 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Opticians in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What is the typical Optician salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Alabama is 35,570. Salaries range from $29,690 (10th percentile) to $46,100 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Opticians in Alabama earn 24% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 35,570.
How many Opticians work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 920 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Opticians in Alabama?
The licensing agency is State of Alabama Hearing Instrument Dealers Board. Review agency details at https://hblb.alabama.gov/.