Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$134,830 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Virginia 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: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Health Professions~Virginia Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $134,830, Optometrists in Virginia earn 0% above the national median of $134,830. Virginia ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$134,830Hourly estimate
$64.820% above national median
Difference: +$0
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $134,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
| North Carolina | $153,750 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 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
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Optometry
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8045974077
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Virginia is $134,830.
How does the Optometrist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Virginia earn 0% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $134,830.
How many Optometrists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 1,120 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Optometry/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.