Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AK Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Alaska
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Alaska, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Alaska
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development • Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing • Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$165,830 median (23% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 Alaska
With a median salary of 165,830, Optometrists in Alaska earn 23% above the national median of $134,830. Alaska ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+5.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,400Median annual salary
$165,830Hourly estimate
$79.7323% above national median
Difference: +$31,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $165,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $157,650 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $119,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| California | $137,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Hawaii | $136,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Hawaii | 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
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development • Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing • Board of Examiners in Optometry
P.O. Box 110806, Juneau, AK, 99811-0806
Phone: 9074652550ext0
Related Careers in Alaska
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $109,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $99,560 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $55,950 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Alaska?
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 is the typical Optometrist salary in Alaska?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Alaska is 165,830. Salaries range from $43,000 (10th percentile) to $236,860 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Alaska compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Alaska earn 23% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 165,830.
How many Optometrists work in Alaska?
Alaska employs approximately 70 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Alaska 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 Alaska?
The licensing agency is Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development / Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing / Board of Examiners in Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardofOptometry.aspx.