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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Montana
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
- Continuing Education: 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 (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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $128,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $88,410 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $66,880 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Montana?
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 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.