Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VT Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Vermont
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Vermont, 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 Vermont
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam 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
Vermont Secretary of State • Optometry - Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$156,000 median (16% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 Vermont
With a median salary of 156,000, Optometrists in Vermont earn 16% above the national median of $134,830. Vermont ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-0.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,272Median annual salary
$156,000Hourly estimate
$75.0016% above national median
Difference: +$21,170
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $156,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $130,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $150,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $163,040 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | 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. |
- 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
Vermont Secretary of State • Optometry - Board
89 Main Street, 3rd floor, Montpelier, VT, 05620
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Vermont
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,000 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $76,430 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $51,020 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Vermont?
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 Vermont?
Vermont lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Vermont?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Vermont.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Vermont?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Vermont is 156,000. Salaries range from $59,360 (10th percentile) to $190,490 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Vermont compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Vermont earn 16% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 156,000.
How many Optometrists work in Vermont?
Vermont employs approximately 100 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Vermont 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 Vermont?
The licensing agency is Vermont Secretary of State / Optometry - Board. Review agency details at https://sos.vermont.gov/optometry/.