Doctor of Optometry License in Alabama
Quick Answer
To become a licensed optometrist in Alabama, you need at least 3 years of pre-optometry college, a 4-year O.D. degree, passing scores on NBEO Parts I-III, and completion of the Board's pharmaceutical protocol. Contact the Alabama Board of Optometry for current fees.
- Exam
- NBEO Parts I-III & State Pharmaceutical Protocol
- Timeline
- 3-6 months after O.D. graduation
- Renewal
- Every Annual
Requirements
Doctor of Optometry license in Alabama
Doctor of Optometry Salary in Alabama
Entry Level
$54,420
Median
$129,700
Experienced
$175,260
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Doctor of Optometry in Alabama.
- 1
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — NBEO Parts I-III & State Pharmaceutical Protocol
- 2
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 3
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months after O.D. graduation.
Doctor of Optometry Licensing in Alabama: What to Know
Alabama requires completion of at least 3 years of pre-optometry undergraduate studies plus a 4-year O.D. degree from an accredited college of optometry. Applicants must pass NBEO Parts I, II, and III, and complete a Board-furnished protocol for the use of pharmaceutical agents in treatment of the eye and its adjacent structures, indicating Alabama grants therapeutic prescribing privileges. Both state and third-party exams are required. Fee information is not provided in the COS data; contact the Alabama Board of Optometry in Bessemer for current schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Doctor of Optometry license in Alabama?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months after O.D. graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Doctor of Optometry license in Alabama?
- You need to pass the NBEO Parts I-III & State Pharmaceutical Protocol. Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare Doctor of Optometry requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.