Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
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
Minnesota Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$150,020 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 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 Minnesota
With a median salary of 150,020, Optometrists in Minnesota earn 11% above the national median of $134,830. Minnesota ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$150,020Hourly estimate
$72.1311% above national median
Difference: +$15,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $150,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $137,650 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $119,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $128,940 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | 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
Minnesota Board of Optometry
2829 University Avenue Southeast, Suite 550, University Park Plaza, Minneapolis, MN, 55414
Phone: 6126172173
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,410 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $91,780 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $74,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $64,630 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Minnesota is 150,020. Salaries range from $93,430 (10th percentile) to $199,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Minnesota earn 11% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 150,020.
How many Optometrists work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 700 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Board of Optometry. Review agency details at http://mn.gov/health-licensing-boards/optometry/.