Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,940 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet North Dakota eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.).
- 6. Submit the application to ND State Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $128,940, Optometrists in North Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $134,830. North Dakota ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$128,940Hourly estimate
$61.994% below national median
Difference: -$5,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#32 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 Dakota | $128,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $150,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $118,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $108,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
Official website verified
ND State Board of Optometry
1830 E Century Ave Unit 1, Bismarck, ND, 58503
Phone: 7016907937
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|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in North Dakota is $128,940. Salaries range from $79,960 (10th percentile) to $168,510 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Optometrists in North Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $128,940.
How many Optometrists work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 180 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Optometry. Review agency details at http://www.ndoptometry.com/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.