Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$131,700 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 131,700, Optometrists in Michigan earn 2% below the national median of $134,830. Michigan ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,308Median annual salary
$131,700Hourly estimate
$63.322% below national median
Difference: -$3,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $131,700 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $130,000 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $127,080 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $137,650 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172410199
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $58,610 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Michigan?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Michigan is 131,700. Salaries range from $95,470 (10th percentile) to $162,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Michigan earn 2% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 131,700.
How many Optometrists work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 1,330 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600---,00.html.