Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Board of Audiology/Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,710 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 47,710, Opticians in Maryland earn 2% above the national median of $46,560. Maryland ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,710Hourly estimate
$22.942% above national median
Difference: +$1,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $47,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $44,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $40,400 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Board of Audiology/Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech
4201 Patterson Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21215
Phone: 4107644723
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $101,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,280 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Maryland?
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 is the typical Optician salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Maryland is 47,710. Salaries range from $35,310 (10th percentile) to $63,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Opticians in Maryland earn 2% above the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 47,710.
How many Opticians work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 1,170 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Maryland 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 Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene / Board of Audiology/Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech. Review agency details at http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/boardsahs.