Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Montana, 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 Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$108,600 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $108,600, Optometrists in Montana earn 19% below the national median of $134,830. Montana ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$108,600Hourly estimate
$52.2119% below national median
Difference: -$26,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $108,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $128,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $88,410 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1 month |
| Idaho | $66,880 | Degree required | State exam required | 21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 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
Official website verified
Board of Optometry
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412369
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $459,360 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $61,590 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Montana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Montana is $108,600. Salaries range from $57,920 (10th percentile) to $166,440 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Montana earn 19% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $108,600.
How many Optometrists work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 150 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Optometry. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/opt.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.