Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Optometry Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,260 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 128,260, Optometrists in Pennsylvania earn 5% below the national median of $134,830. Pennsylvania ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$128,260Hourly estimate
$61.665% below national median
Difference: -$6,570
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $163,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $156,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $137,910 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $130,000 | Degree required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Optometry Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837155
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Pennsylvania is 128,260. Salaries range from $79,310 (10th percentile) to $175,410 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Pennsylvania earn 5% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 128,260.
How many Optometrists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 1,530 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Optometry Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Optometry/Pages/default.aspx.