Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$119,990 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 119,990, Optometrists in Iowa earn 11% below the national median of $134,830. Iowa ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$119,990Hourly estimate
$57.6911% below national median
Difference: -$14,840
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#39 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $119,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $150,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $137,650 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $136,200 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $113,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $116,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 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. |
| Nebraska | 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Optometry
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Iowa is 119,990. Salaries range from $77,000 (10th percentile) to $178,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Iowa earn 11% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 119,990.
How many Optometrists work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 460 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/optometry.