Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Alabama
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 3
An applicant should complete: application for examination
- Official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtained the following: Pre-optometry
- minimum of three (3) years of professional study
- Optometry Degree
- four (4) years of professional study.
- 4
Proof of passing parts I and II of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry
- After passing parts I and II, proof of passing part III of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Protocol furnished by the Board for the use of pharmaceutical agents in the treatment of the eye and its adjacent structures.
Exam and processing details
- National Board of Examiners in Optometry
- After passing parts I and II, proof of passing part III of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Protocol furnished by the Board for the use of pharmaceutical agents in the treatment of the eye and its adjacent structures
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$129,700 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Alabama eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required National Board of Examiners in Optometry; After passing parts I and II, proof of passing part III of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry....
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (An applicant should complete: application for examination; Official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtain...).
- 5. Submit the application to Alabama Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of $129,700, Optometrists in Alabama earn 4% below the national median of $134,830. Alabama ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median annual salary
$129,700Hourly estimate
$62.364% below national median
Difference: -$5,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Optometrist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $165,830 |
| #2 | New York | $163,040 |
| #3 | Maryland | $157,830 |
| #4 | Washington | $157,650 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $156,000 |
Nearby States Comparison
Optometrist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $129,700 | Varies by state board | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
| Georgia | $129,690 | Degree required | State exam required | 21 years |
| Florida | $129,500 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $107,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1 month |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Alabama Board of Optometry
1431 2nd Avenue North, Bessemer, AL, 35020
Phone: 2054819993
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $323,940 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $53,640 | Degree required | 3 years |
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Alabama?
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 Optometrists in Alabama?
Alabama lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Alabama is $129,700. Salaries range from $54,420 (10th percentile) to $175,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Alabama earn 4% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $129,700.
How many Optometrists work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 470 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Alabama 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 Optometrists in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.optometry.alabama.gov/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.