Application Fee
See agencyOptician Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in North Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND Board of Hearing Aid Specialists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$41,400 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet North Dakota eligibility requirements for Optician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.).
- 6. Submit the application to ND Board of Hearing Aid Specialists and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $41,400, Opticians in North Dakota earn 11% below the national median of $46,560. North Dakota ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$41,400Hourly estimate
$19.90Difference: -$5,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
| 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 Dakota | $41,400 | No educational requirements | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $49,020 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $41,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $44,600 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 56 | Medium | 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
ND Board of Hearing Aid Specialists
825 25th St S, Fargo, ND, 58103
Phone: 7013615481
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,380 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $91,440 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in North Dakota?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Optician licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Optician salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Opticians in North Dakota is $41,400. Salaries range from $36,760 (10th percentile) to $53,740 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Opticians in North Dakota earn 11% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of $41,400.
How many Opticians work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 300 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND Board of Hearing Aid Specialists. Review agency details at https://apps.nd.gov/gov/boards/Search/Boards.
How often do you renew a Optician license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.