Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
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: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$120,080 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 120,080, Optometrists in Louisiana earn 11% below the national median of $134,830. Louisiana ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$120,080Hourly estimate
$57.7311% below national median
Difference: -$14,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $120,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $99,970 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $107,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $128,360 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners
1111 Medical Center Boulevard S-880, Marrero, LA, 70072
Phone: 3183352989
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Louisiana is 120,080. Salaries range from $45,180 (10th percentile) to $215,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Louisiana earn 11% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 120,080.
How many Optometrists work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 230 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.laoptometryboard.com/.