Optician (Dispensing) / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Optician (Dispensing) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Fits and adjusts eyeglasses and contact lenses. Licensed in ~22 states.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Optician (Dispensing)s

District of Columbia's path to optician (dispensing) licensure runs through 1,000 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a criminal history screening. District of Columbia folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Certificate/Degree".

Budget $100 to get started on a 2-year cycle. District of Columbia doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

District of Columbia handles out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis instead of a standing reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Certificate/Degree
1,000 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Optician (Dispensing) All District of Columbia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Optician (Dispensing) in District of Columbia? ▼
In District of Columbia, the license path calls for 1000 education/training hours, a passing exam score, and a $100 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Optician (Dispensing) in District of Columbia? ▼
Certification as an optician (dispensing) in District of Columbia means clearing the state's checklist: 1000 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The District of Columbia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Optician (Dispensing) license to District of Columbia from another state? ▼
District of Columbia evaluates out-of-state optician (dispensing) licenses on a case-by-case basis. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Optician (Dispensing) licensing? ▼
Yes, District of Columbia requires a criminal background check as part of the optician (dispensing) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.