Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CT Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Connecticut
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Connecticut, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Connecticut
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Public Health • Health Care Systems Branch • Practitioner Licensing & Investigations Section
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$143,000 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 Connecticut
With a median salary of 143,000, Optometrists in Connecticut earn 6% above the national median of $134,830. Connecticut ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,619Median annual salary
$143,000Hourly estimate
$68.756% above national median
Difference: +$8,170
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#13 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $143,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $150,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $144,360 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $163,040 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 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
Department of Public Health • Health Care Systems Branch • Practitioner Licensing & Investigations Section
410 Capitol Avenue, P.O.Box 340308, Hartford, CT, 06134-0308
Phone: 8605097603
Related Careers in Connecticut
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $96,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $91,750 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $75,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $50,820 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Connecticut?
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 exams are required for Optometrists in Connecticut?
Connecticut lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Connecticut?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Connecticut.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Connecticut?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Connecticut is 143,000. Salaries range from $49,760 (10th percentile) to $217,040 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Connecticut compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Connecticut earn 6% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 143,000.
How many Optometrists work in Connecticut?
Connecticut employs approximately 410 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Connecticut 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 Connecticut?
The licensing agency is Department of Public Health / Health Care Systems Branch / Practitioner Licensing & Investigations Section. Review agency details at https://www.dph.state.ct.us/licensure/licensure.htm.