Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in California, 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 California
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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$137,070 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 California
With a median salary of 137,070, Optometrists in California earn 2% above the national median of $134,830. California ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$137,070Hourly estimate
$65.902% above national median
Difference: +$2,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $137,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $119,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $146,760 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $134,430 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Optometry
2450 Del Paso Road, Suite 105, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165757170
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in California?
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 California?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in California is 137,070. Salaries range from $71,860 (10th percentile) to $213,420 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in California compare to the national average?
Optometrists in California earn 2% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 137,070.
How many Optometrists work in California?
California employs approximately 6,790 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to California 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 California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.optometry.ca.gov/.