CaliforniaOptometrist License Requirements

Prerequisite Education

3-4 years undergraduate (90+ semester hours minimum)

Optometrists must earn a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree from an ACOE-accredited program. Programs are typically 4 years in length and include extensive clinical training. Prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics is typically required.

NBEO Fee: $4335

Combined fee for all three NBEO parts ($1445 each) paid to NBEO; increases to $1490/part August 2026

Retake Policy

NBEO allows retakes of individual parts; waiting periods and attempt limits vary by part. Check NBEO Exam Eligibility Policy for details.

The NBEO consists of three parts: Part I (Applied Basic Science), Part II (Patient Assessment and Management), and Part III (Clinical Skills). All parts must be passed for licensure. Many states also require a jurisprudence exam covering state-specific optometry laws and regulations.

TPA Requirements

Completion of ACOE-accredited optometric program with TPA curriculum; passage of TMOD (Treatment and Management of Ocular Disease) examination

TPA Continuing Education

35 hours of TPA-specific CE per renewal cycle

TPA certification allows optometrists to prescribe and administer therapeutic pharmaceutical agents for the treatment of eye diseases and conditions. Requirements for TPA certification, including permitted medications and CE requirements, vary by state.

Restricted Activities

Optometrists' scope of practice varies significantly by state. While all states allow comprehensive eye exams and contact lens prescribing, laser procedures, minor surgery, and injectable medication privileges are only available in select states. Scope continues to expand as legislation evolves.

Required CE Topics

Regulatory Board

Optometrist licenses must be renewed on schedule. Most states require continuing education hours covering topics such as ocular disease, pharmacology, and ethics. TPA-certified optometrists typically have additional CE requirements specific to pharmaceutical agents.

Reciprocity Requirements

• •Active optometry license in good standing in another state
• •Graduation from an ACOE-accredited Doctor of Optometry program
• •Passage of all NBEO parts
• •Current TPA certification
• •Submit endorsement application with verification of original licensure
• •Pass criminal background check
• •Pass state jurisprudence examination

NBEO scores are portable across states, making it easier for optometrists to obtain licensure in multiple states. Most states offer endorsement pathways for out-of-state optometrists with active licenses and clean disciplinary records.