Optometrist / Mississippi
2026 data Mississippi board official source

Mississippi Optometrist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Examines eyes for vision defects and prescribes corrective lenses.

What the Mississippi data shows for Optometrists

To practice as an optometrist in Mississippi, the state licensing board requires 4,297 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 Mississippi's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Optometry (OD)".

The initial price tag is $201, and renewal costs $172 every 2 years. 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 Mississippi

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
4,297 hours
Exam Requirement
NBEO Exam Series
Required
Initial License Fee
$201
Renewal Fee
$172
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 Mississippi licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Mississippi licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Optometrist in Mississippi? ▼
In Mississippi, the license path calls for 4297 education/training hours, a passing score on NBEO Exam Series, and a $201 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Optometrist in Mississippi? ▼
Certification as an optometrist in Mississippi means clearing the state's checklist: 4297 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Mississippi licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to Mississippi from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for optometrists: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Mississippi licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Mississippi require a background check for Optometrist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for optometrist licensing in Mississippi. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Optometrist in Mississippi? ▼
Licensed optometrists in Mississippi must complete 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $172.

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.