Application Fee
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Optometrist Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Delaware, 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 Delaware
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$137,910 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 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 Delaware
With a median salary of 137,910, Optometrists in Delaware earn 2% above the national median of $134,830. Delaware ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.5%Average Weekly Wage
$1,371Median annual salary
$137,910Hourly estimate
$66.302% above national median
Difference: +$3,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#14 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $137,910 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $156,000 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Examiners in Optometry
Cannon Building, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., STE. 203, Dover, DE, 19904-2467
Phone: 3027444500
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $78,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,000 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $67,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Delaware lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Delaware?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Delaware is 137,910. Salaries range from $75,250 (10th percentile) to $182,050 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Delaware earn 2% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 137,910.
How many Optometrists work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 180 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Delaware from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Optometrists in Delaware?
The licensing agency is Delaware Department of State / Division of Professional Regulation / Board of Examiners in Optometry. Review agency details at https://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/optometry/.