Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in Montana, 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 Montana
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Hearing Aid Dispensers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,600 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 Montana
With a median salary of 44,600, Opticians in Montana earn 4% below the national median of $46,560. Montana ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$44,600Hourly estimate
$21.444% below national median
Difference: -$1,960
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $44,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $41,400 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $41,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $37,870 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $39,670 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | 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
Board of Hearing Aid Dispensers
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412395
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optician licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Optician salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Opticians in Montana is 44,600. Salaries range from $33,520 (10th percentile) to $62,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Opticians in Montana earn 4% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 44,600.
How many Opticians work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 310 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Hearing Aid Dispensers. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/had.