Optometrist / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Optometrist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Examines eyes for vision defects and prescribes corrective lenses.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Optometrists

To practice as an optometrist in District of Columbia, the state licensing board requires 4,573 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NBEO Exam Series. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under District of Columbia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Optometry (OD)".

Budget $319 to get started, plus $261 at each renewal 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 District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
4,573 hours
Exam Requirement
NBEO Exam Series
Required
Initial License Fee
$319
Renewal Fee
$261
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 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 Optometrist in District of Columbia? ▼
District of Columbia requires 4573 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBEO Exam Series), and an initial fee of $319. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Optometrist in District of Columbia? ▼
District of Columbia licenses optometrists who complete its requirements (4573 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the District of Columbia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to District of Columbia from another state? ▼
Optometrist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The District of Columbia licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Optometrist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the optometrist licensing process in District of Columbia. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Optometrist in District of Columbia? ▼
Licensed optometrists in District of Columbia must complete 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $261.

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.