Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$41,810 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 41,810, Opticians in Iowa earn 10% below the national median of $46,560. Iowa ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$41,810Hourly estimate
$20.1010% below national median
Difference: -$4,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $41,810 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $49,020 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $43,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $41,230 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $36,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $38,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $41,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners
Iowa Board of Pharmacy, 400 S.W. 8th Street, Suite E, Des Moines, IA, 50309-4688
Phone: 5152423272
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optician licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Optician salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Iowa is 41,810. Salaries range from $36,140 (10th percentile) to $50,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Opticians in Iowa earn 10% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 41,810.
How many Opticians work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 1,000 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Opticians in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Health / Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners. Review agency details at https://pharmacy.iowa.gov/licensureregistration/pharmacists.