Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Ohio, 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 Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Vision Professionals Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$130,000 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 130,000, Optometrists in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $134,830. Ohio ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,256Median annual salary
$130,000Hourly estimate
$62.504% below national median
Difference: -$4,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $130,000 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $131,700 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $127,080 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 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. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 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
Ohio Vision Professionals Board
77 S. High Street, 16th Floor, Columbus, OH, 43215
Phone: 6144669709
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $76,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $81,110 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,330 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Ohio?
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 education do you need to become a Optometrist in Ohio?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Ohio is 130,000. Salaries range from $53,900 (10th percentile) to $172,420 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 130,000.
How many Optometrists work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 1,450 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Vision Professionals Board. Review agency details at https://www.vision.ohio.gov/.