Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ID Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in Idaho
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Idaho, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Idaho
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Idaho Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$39,670 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Idaho
With a median salary of 39,670, Opticians in Idaho earn 15% below the national median of $46,560. Idaho ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$39,670Hourly estimate
$19.0715% below national median
Difference: -$6,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#38 of 50 statesfor Optician median salary
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $39,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $44,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $37,870 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $39,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $47,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $49,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $48,320 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Montana | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Idaho Board of Nursing
280 N. 8th St., Ste. 210, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID, 83720-0061
Phone: 208334326
Related Careers in Idaho
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $45,080 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $39,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Idaho?
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 Idaho?
Idaho lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in Idaho?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optician licensure in Idaho.
What is the typical Optician salary in Idaho?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Idaho is 39,670. Salaries range from $30,800 (10th percentile) to $72,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Idaho compare to the national average?
Opticians in Idaho earn 15% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 39,670.
How many Opticians work in Idaho?
Idaho employs approximately 570 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Idaho from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Opticians in Idaho?
The licensing agency is Idaho Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://ibn.idaho.gov/IBNPortal/.