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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: 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 (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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $110,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $153,750 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
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 6-24 months, 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/.