Optometrist / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota Optometrist License Requirements

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

Examines eyes for vision defects and prescribes corrective lenses.

What the North Dakota data shows for Optometrists

To practice as a optometrist in North Dakota, the state licensing board requires 4,108 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NBEO Exam Series examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under North Dakota's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Doctor of Optometry (OD)".

Upfront cost is $121, with renewal running $110 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
4,108 hours
Exam Requirement
NBEO Exam Series
Required
Initial License Fee
$121
Renewal Fee
$110
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
40 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Optometrist in North Dakota?
North Dakota requires 4108 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBEO Exam Series), and an initial fee of $121. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Optometrist in North Dakota?
To become a licensed optometrist in North Dakota, you must meet the state's requirements including 4108 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the North Dakota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Optometrist license to North Dakota from another state?
North Dakota has reciprocity provisions: Not part of compact — state-by-state endorsement. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the North Dakota licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does North Dakota require a background check for Optometrist licensing?
Yes, North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
Licensed optometrists in North Dakota must complete 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $110.

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

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