State Board
Contact Directory
Find the official licensing board for your state to verify requirements and submit your application.
Texas
No State License Required
Licensed vs. Unlicensed States
In the United States, the regulation of opticianry is left to individual state governments. About half of the states require a license to practice, meaning you must pass national exams (ABO/NCLE) and sometimes a state-specific practical exam to legally call yourself an "Optician."
In non-licensed states, there are no legal requirements to work in a dispensary. However, even in these states, obtaining your national certifications is highly recommended. It serves as a "gold standard" that proves your technical competence to employers and often leads to higher pay and more responsibilities.
Why the Board Matters
Consumer Protection: Boards ensure that anyone dispensing eyewear has met a baseline of safety and competence.
Professional Standards: They set the ethical guidelines for patient interaction and record-keeping.
Advocacy: State boards often work with professional associations to define the scope of practice for opticians.
A Dynamic Professional Landscape
Licensing laws can change. We recommend contacting your state board directly at the beginning of your journey to ensure you are following the most current path to licensure. Many boards now offer online portals where you can track your apprenticeship hours and exam results in real-time.
Don't see your state?
We are constantly updating this directory. If your state isn't listed, search for the "Board of Dispensing Opticians" or "Department of Health" in your local state government website.