Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ME Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Maine
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Maine, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Maine
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Tied to business.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$133,470 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Maine eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation~Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Maine
With a median salary of $133,470, Optometrists in Maine earn 1% below the national median of $134,830. Maine ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,220Median annual salary
$133,470Hourly estimate
$64.171% below national median
Difference: -$1,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $133,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $130,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 1-18 years |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Gardiner Annex/ 76 Northern Ave, 35 State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-0035
Phone: 2076248603
Related Careers in Maine
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|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $66,320 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
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| Athletic Trainer | $58,140 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Maine?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Optometrists in Maine?
Maine lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Maine?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Maine.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Maine?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Maine is $133,470. Salaries range from $100,510 (10th percentile) to $235,420 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Maine compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Maine earn 1% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $133,470.
How many Optometrists work in Maine?
Maine employs approximately 170 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Maine from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Optometrists in Maine?
The licensing agency is Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation / Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/index.shtml.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Maine?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.