Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KS Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Kansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Kansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Kansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,510 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 Kansas
With a median salary of 128,510, Optometrists in Kansas earn 5% below the national median of $134,830. Kansas ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,169Median annual salary
$128,510Hourly estimate
$61.785% below national median
Difference: -$6,320
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | $128,510 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $116,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $113,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $137,370 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 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
Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry
3109 W 6th St, Suite A, Lawrence, KS, 66049
Phone: 7858329986
Related Careers in Kansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $83,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $74,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,470 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $39,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Kansas?
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 Kansas?
Kansas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Kansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Kansas.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Kansas?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Kansas is 128,510. Salaries range from $94,990 (10th percentile) to $212,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Kansas compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Kansas earn 5% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 128,510.
How many Optometrists work in Kansas?
Kansas employs approximately 460 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Kansas 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 Kansas?
The licensing agency is Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry. Review agency details at https://kssbeo.ks.gov/.