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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 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

Third-party exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Optometrist in North Dakota

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core 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

  1. Licensing Authority

    ND State Board of Optometry

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $128,940 median (4% below national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #32 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

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 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+2.8%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,258

Median annual salary

$128,940

Hourly estimate

$61.99
4% below national median

Difference: -$5,890

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$79,960
  • P2525th percentile$102,940
  • P50Median$128,940
  • P7575th percentile$146,950
  • P9090th percentile$168,510

State vs National Median

State: $128,940
National: $134,830

Total employment: 180 | Annual openings: N/A

Optometrist Salary Ranking

#32 of 50 statesfor Optometrist median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Alaska165,830
#2New York163,040
#3Maryland157,830
#4Washington157,650
#5New Jersey156,000

Nearby States Comparison

Optometrist licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
North Dakota$128,940Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Minnesota$150,020Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
South Dakota$118,980Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Montana$108,600Specific course requiredThird-party exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
North Dakota50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Minnesota78HighBoard-specific review required.
South Dakota78HighBoard-specific review required.
Montana56MediumState-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

ND State Board of Optometry

1830 E Century Ave Unit 1, Bismarck, ND, 58503

Phone: 7016907937

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in North Dakota

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Audiologist$91,440Degree required6-24 months
Chiropractor$81,780Degree required6-24 months
Clinical Lab Technologist$61,790Degree required6-24 months
Dental Assistant$51,310No educational requirements6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Optometrist in North Dakota?

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 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/.