Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Illinois, 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 Illinois
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: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$136,200 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 136,200, Optometrists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $134,830. Illinois ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$136,200Hourly estimate
$65.481% above national median
Difference: +$1,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $136,200 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $137,650 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $119,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $113,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $127,080 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
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|---|---|---|---|
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Illinois?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Illinois is 136,200. Salaries range from $68,320 (10th percentile) to $176,130 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 136,200.
How many Optometrists work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 1,670 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Illinois 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 Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.