Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Prescribes corrective procedures to improve and correct vision utilizing vision therapy and training, corrective lenses and control of the visual environment.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$144,360 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course 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.).
- 6. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Health Professions Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $144,360, Optometrists in Rhode Island earn 7% above the national median of $134,830. Rhode Island ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$144,360Hourly estimate
$69.407% above national median
Difference: +$9,530
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $144,360 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $150,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 2-4 years |
| Connecticut | $143,000 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222828
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Rhode Island is $144,360. Salaries range from $64,710 (10th percentile) to $207,430 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Rhode Island earn 7% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $144,360.
How many Optometrists work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 220 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.