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 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optician in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
What do I need to do to obtain a trainee's permit?First, you will need to fill out the application for trainee's permit.
- 5
You will need to send the completed application, $120 fee, and a letter from your healthcare provider stating that you are free from communicable disease.
- 6
Mail to the address on the application.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- 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 (7)
- 1. Meet West Virginia eligibility requirements for Optician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (What do I need to do to obtain a trainee's permit?First, you will need to fill out the application for trainee's permit.; You will need to send the completed application, $120 fee, and a letter from your healthcare provider stating that you are free from comm...).
- 6. Submit the application to HEARING AID DEALERS AND FITTERS and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $44,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $47,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $54,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $44,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $48,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | 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
Official website verified
HEARING AID DEALERS AND FITTERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3043466521
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | $168,390 | Degree required | 2-3 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $45,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optician in West Virginia?
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 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/.
How often do you renew a Optician license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.