Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,570 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 49,570, Opticians in North Carolina earn 6% above the national median of $46,560. North Carolina ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,570Hourly estimate
$23.836% above national median
Difference: +$3,010
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $49,570 | Varies by state board | No 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 |
| Georgia | $45,640 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $46,830 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
3301 Terminal Drive, Suite 125, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Phone: 9197077500
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What is the typical Optician salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Opticians in North Carolina is 49,570. Salaries range from $35,600 (10th percentile) to $78,100 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Opticians in North Carolina earn 6% above the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 49,570.
How many Opticians work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,890 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Revenue / Taxpayer Assistance. Review agency details at https://www.ncdor.gov/taxes-forms/privilege-license-tax.