LicenseCompass

Optometry License License in California

Quick Answer

To become a licensed optometrist in California, you need an O.D. degree, passing scores on NBEO Parts I-III (including TMOD), and the California Laws and Regulations Exam. Application is $279, biennial renewal is $500, and processing takes only 1-3 weeks.

Exam
NBEO Parts I-III (including TMOD) & California Laws and Regulations Exam (CLRE)
Total Cost
$779 (est.)
Timeline
1-3 weeks processing after application
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Optometry License license in California

gold
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$279
Renewal Fee
$500
Total Estimated Cost
$779

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Optometry

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Optometry License license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$279
Total Estimated Cost$279

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Optometry License Salary in California

Entry Level

$71,860

Median

$137,070

Experienced

$213,420

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Optometry License in California.

  1. 1

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$279.

  2. 2

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 1-3 weeks processing after application.

Optometry License Licensing in California: What to Know

California requires an O.D. degree from an accredited school, passing scores on NBEO Parts I, II (including TMOD component), and III, plus the California Laws and Regulations Exam (CLRE), a computer-based exam administered by PSI on a continuous basis. The application fee is $279 with biennial renewal at $500. Licenses expire on the last day of the licensee's birth month. The CLRE is available at test sites across the U.S., and NBEO exams are offered four times a year at optometry schools. California's application processing time is notably fast at 1-3 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Optometry License license cost in California?
The estimated total cost is $779, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Optometry License license in California?
The process typically takes 1-3 weeks processing after application, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Optometry License license in California?
You need to pass the NBEO Parts I-III (including TMOD) & California Laws and Regulations Exam (CLRE). N/A

Considering another state?

Compare Optometry License requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.