Application Fee
See agencyVerified by GA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Georgia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Georgia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia State Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$129,690 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#30 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 129,690, Optometrists in Georgia earn 4% below the national median of $134,830. Georgia ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,339Median annual salary
$129,690Hourly estimate
$62.354% below national median
Difference: -$5,140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#30 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $129,690 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $153,750 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $137,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $129,500 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $129,700 | Varies by state board | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: No new Licenses.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Georgia State Board of Optometry
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $101,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $61,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,600 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Georgia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Georgia is 129,690. Salaries range from $79,640 (10th percentile) to $202,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Georgia earn 4% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 129,690.
How many Optometrists work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 860 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Georgia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: No new Licenses. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Optometrists in Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia State Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.