Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Optician Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optician in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone 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
HEARING AID DEALERS AND FITTERS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$38,480 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 38,480, Opticians in West Virginia earn 17% below the national median of $46,560. West Virginia ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$38,480Hourly estimate
$18.5017% below national median
Difference: -$8,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptician Salary Ranking
#40 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $38,480 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $44,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $47,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $54,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $44,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $48,080 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
HEARING AID DEALERS AND FITTERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3043466521
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Opticians.
What education do you need to become a Optician in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optician licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Optician salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Opticians in West Virginia is 38,480. Salaries range from $28,950 (10th percentile) to $59,300 (90th percentile).
How does the Optician salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Opticians in West Virginia earn 17% below the national median of $46,560, with a state median of 38,480.
How many Opticians work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 400 Opticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optician license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is HEARING AID DEALERS AND FITTERS. Review agency details at http://www.wvbhad.org/.