Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in South Carolina, 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 South Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Examiners in Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$137,450 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 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 South Carolina
With a median salary of 137,450, Optometrists in South Carolina earn 2% above the national median of $134,830. South Carolina ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$137,450Hourly estimate
$66.082% above national median
Difference: +$2,620
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $137,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $153,750 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $129,690 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
SC Board of Examiners in Optometry
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964679
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $69,990 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $52,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,930 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in South Carolina?
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 is the typical Optometrist salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in South Carolina is 137,450. Salaries range from $55,290 (10th percentile) to $163,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Optometrists in South Carolina earn 2% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 137,450.
How many Optometrists work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 480 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to South Carolina 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 South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Examiners in Optometry. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Optometry/.