Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in West 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course 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
OPTOMETRY
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$130,190 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 130,190, Optometrists in West Virginia earn 3% below the national median of $134,830. West Virginia ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$130,190Hourly estimate
$62.593% below national median
Difference: -$4,640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $130,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $128,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $157,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $134,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $132,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $130,000 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| 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. |
| Ohio | 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
OPTOMETRY
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045585901
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in West 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Optometrist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in West Virginia is 130,190. Salaries range from $63,460 (10th percentile) to $215,640 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Optometrists in West Virginia earn 3% below the national median of $134,830, with a state median of 130,190.
How many Optometrists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 150 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is OPTOMETRY. Review agency details at http://www.wvbo.org/.