Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.
Exam and processing details
- State Board of Optometry, successfully completed the National Board of Examiners in Optometry Parts I-III and the Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease and have endorsements for DPA/TPA, oral medications and epinephrine by injection
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$157,650 median (17% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington 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 State Board of Optometry, successfully completed the National Board of Examiners in Optometry Parts I-III and the Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease and have endorsement....
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $157,650, Optometrists in Washington earn 17% above the national median of $134,830. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$157,650Hourly estimate
$75.7917% above national median
Difference: +$22,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#4 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in Washington is $157,650. Salaries range from $114,460 (10th percentile) to $211,020 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Washington earn 17% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $157,650.
How many Optometrists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 930 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.