Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NE Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Nebraska
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Nebraska Dept. of Health & Human Services • Public Health Licensure Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$116,850 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Nebraska
With a median salary of 116,850, Optometrists in Nebraska earn 13% below the national median of $134,830. Nebraska ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,157Median annual salary
$116,850Hourly estimate
$56.1813% below national median
Difference: -$17,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | $116,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $119,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $113,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $128,510 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $137,370 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $88,410 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 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
Nebraska Dept. of Health & Human Services • Public Health Licensure Unit
301 Centennial Mall S, Lincoln, NE, 68508
Phone: 4022244915
Related Careers in Nebraska
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,820 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $69,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,430 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,660 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Nebraska?
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 Nebraska?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Nebraska is 116,850. Salaries range from $64,550 (10th percentile) to $191,760 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Nebraska compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Nebraska earn 13% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 116,850.
How many Optometrists work in Nebraska?
Nebraska employs approximately 370 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Nebraska 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 Nebraska?
The licensing agency is Nebraska Dept. of Health & Human Services / Public Health Licensure Unit. Review agency details at https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/pages/acupuncture.aspx.