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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: 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 (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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $37,740 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $48,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $38,480 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $54,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $47,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $36,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $41,230 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | 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
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027828810ext228
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Kentucky?
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 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/.