Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State 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
NC Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$153,750 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 153,750, Optometrists in North Carolina earn 14% above the national median of $134,830. North Carolina ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$153,750Hourly estimate
$73.9214% above national median
Difference: +$18,920
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $153,750 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $134,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $129,690 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $137,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
NC Board of Optometry
521 Yopp Road, Suite 214 #444, Jackson, NC, 28540
Phone: 9102853160
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in North Carolina is 153,750.
How does the Optometrist salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Optometrists in North Carolina earn 14% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 153,750.
How many Optometrists work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,400 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/licensing_boards/optometry.