Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in New York, 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 New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree 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
NYS Education Department • State Board for Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$163,040 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 New York
With a median salary of 163,040, Optometrists in New York earn 21% above the national median of $134,830. New York ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,739Median annual salary
$163,040Hourly estimate
$78.3821% above national median
Difference: +$28,210
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $163,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $156,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $150,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $143,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $156,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | 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
NYS Education Department • State Board for Optometry
89 Washington Avenue, 2nd Floor, Albany, NY, 12234
Phone: 5184743817
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,750 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $82,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $84,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in New York?
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 New York?
New York lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in New York?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in New York.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in New York is 163,040. Salaries range from $108,190 (10th percentile) to $196,270 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in New York compare to the national average?
Optometrists in New York earn 21% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 163,040.
How many Optometrists work in New York?
New York employs approximately 2,500 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to New York 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 New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Education Department / State Board for Optometry. Review agency details at http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/.