Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Arizona, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Arizona
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$134,430 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Arizona eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Arizona
With a median salary of $134,430, Optometrists in Arizona earn 0% below the national median of $134,830. Arizona ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,369Median annual salary
$134,430Hourly estimate
$64.630% above national median
Difference: -$400
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $134,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Utah | $124,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $137,370 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $154,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $146,760 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 1 month |
| California | $137,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Colorado | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Optometry
1740 W Adams St, Ste 3003, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Phone: 6025428155
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $87,780 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,270 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $102,130 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Arizona?
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 is the typical Optometrist salary in Arizona?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Arizona is $134,430. Salaries range from $95,990 (10th percentile) to $174,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Arizona earn 0% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $134,430.
How many Optometrists work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 960 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Arizona 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 Arizona?
The licensing agency is Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://optometry.az.gov/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Arizona?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.