Optometrist / Alaska
2026 data Alaska board official source

Alaska Optometrist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Examines eyes for vision defects and prescribes corrective lenses.

What the Alaska data shows for Optometrists

Alaska sets the entry bar for optometrists at 4,149 training hours and a passing score on NBEO Exam Series. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Alaska's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Optometry (OD)".

Upfront cost is $138, with renewal running $123 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 40-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, optometrists should know: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement.

Licensing Requirements in Alaska

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
4,149 hours
Exam Requirement
NBEO Exam Series
Required
Initial License Fee
$138
Renewal Fee
$123
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
40 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Optometrist All Alaska licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Alaska licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Optometrist in Alaska? ▼
Alaska requires 4149 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBEO Exam Series), and an initial fee of $138. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Optometrist in Alaska? ▼
Alaska licenses optometrists who complete its requirements (4149 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Alaska licensing board.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Alaska from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for optometrists nationally works like this: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Alaska. Verify the specifics with the Alaska licensing board.
Does Alaska require a background check for Optometrist licensing? ▼
Yes, Alaska requires a criminal background check as part of the optometrist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Optometrist in Alaska? ▼
To stay licensed as an optometrist in Alaska, plan on 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $123.

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.