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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 (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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $99,970 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $120,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $154,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Texas Optometry Board
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 9.300, Austin, TX, 78701-1319
Phone: 5123058500
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Texas?
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 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/.