Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Optometric Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$132,000 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#24 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 132,000, Optometrists in Kentucky earn 2% below the national median of $134,830. Kentucky ranks #24 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$132,000Hourly estimate
$63.462% below national median
Difference: -$2,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#24 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $127,080 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $130,000 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $134,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $113,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $136,200 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Optometric Examiners
2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A240, Lexington, KY, 40504
Phone: 8592462744
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Kentucky is 132,000.
How does the Optometrist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Kentucky earn 2% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 132,000.
How many Optometrists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 500 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Optometric Examiners. Review agency details at https://optometry.ky.gov/.