Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
License Type: Preliminary/temporary license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,530 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Optician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Professional Licensing~Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $44,530, Opticians in Kentucky earn 4% below the national median of $46,560. Kentucky ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$44,530Hourly estimate
$21.414% below national median
Difference: -$2,030
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $44,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $37,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $48,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $38,480 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $54,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $47,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 18 years |
| Missouri | $36,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $41,230 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 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. |
- 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
Official website verified
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027828810ext228
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|---|---|---|---|
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Opticians in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optician licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Optician salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Kentucky is $44,530. Salaries range from $29,620 (10th percentile) to $62,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Opticians in Kentucky earn 4% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of $44,530.
How many Opticians work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 980 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers. Review agency details at https://bod.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Optician license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.