Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Hawaii, 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 Hawaii
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree 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
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$136,670 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 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 Hawaii
With a median salary of 136,670, Optometrists in Hawaii earn 1% above the national median of $134,830. Hawaii ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-0.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,316Median annual salary
$136,670Hourly estimate
$65.711% above national median
Difference: +$1,840
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $136,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| 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 |
| Washington | $157,650 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alaska | $165,830 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alaska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Board of Optometry
P. O. Box 3469, [335 Merchant St., Rm. 301, Honolulu, HI 96813], Honolulu, HI, 96801
Phone: 8085863000
Related Careers in Hawaii
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $102,260 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $44,870 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Hawaii?
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 Hawaii?
Hawaii lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Hawaii is 136,670. Salaries range from $99,040 (10th percentile) to $207,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Hawaii earn 1% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 136,670.
How many Optometrists work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 230 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Hawaii 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 Hawaii?
The licensing agency is Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs / Professional and Vocational Licensing Division / Board of Optometry. Review agency details at http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/optometry/.