Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- certain testing procedures to determine whether the eyes are functioning visually and free from disease or other disorder
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Optometry Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,360 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Optometry Board and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $128,360, Optometrists in Texas earn 5% below the national median of $134,830. Texas ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$128,360Hourly estimate
$61.715% below national median
Difference: -$6,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#34 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $128,360 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $98,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $99,970 | Degree required | State exam required | 1-21 years |
| Louisiana | $120,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $154,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | 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
Official website verified
Texas Optometry Board
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 9.300, Austin, TX, 78701-1319
Phone: 5123058500
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Texas is $128,360. Salaries range from $44,610 (10th percentile) to $177,360 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Texas earn 5% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $128,360.
How many Optometrists work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 3,180 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Optometry Board. Review agency details at http://www.tob.state.tx.us/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.