Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$157,830 median (17% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 157,830, Optometrists in Maryland earn 17% above the national median of $134,830. Maryland ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,497Median annual salary
$157,830Hourly estimate
$75.8817% above national median
Difference: +$23,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $137,910 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Board of Examiners in Optometry
4201 Patterson Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21215
Phone: 4107644710
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $101,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,280 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Maryland?
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 is the typical Optometrist salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Maryland is 157,830. Salaries range from $51,130 (10th percentile) to $196,360 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Maryland earn 17% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 157,830.
How many Optometrists work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 870 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Maryland from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Optometrists in Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene / Board of Examiners in Optometry.