Verified October 10, 2026 against the practice act, board rules and sources cited below. The board decides every application. All states
What optometrists miss in District of Columbia
- Verifications are required from every jurisdiction where a license was ever held, sent directly by that jurisdiction.
- Three professional character references go in with the paper package.
- An incomplete application becomes invalid after 90 days.
How does an optometrist licensed elsewhere get a District of Columbia license?
Applicants choose examination or endorsement. Endorsement requires a license in good standing from a state with comparable standards plus passing NBEO scores. Neither route sets a years-of-practice minimum. The board meets quarterly to approve licenses.
- On NBEO scores
- Board: DC Board of Optometry (DC Health)
Citation: DC Health application instructions
Which NBEO exams does District of Columbia require?
All applicants pass the NBEO exam before applying; DPA and TPA authority each require TMOD.
- NBEO: I, II, III, TMOD
What scope does a District of Columbia license carry?
DPA and TPA are authorities on the license; DPA comes automatically with TPA. Both require a board-approved pharmacology course and TMOD.
- Tiers: DPA, TPA
Citation: DC Health application instructions
What does a District of Columbia optometry license cost?
- Application: $288 ($85 application plus $203 license) (as of Oct 2026)
Citation: DC Health application instructions, fee matrix
How often does a District of Columbia license renew?
- Renews every two years
- Due March 31 of even years
Licensing in District of Columbia?
We prepare every supporting document and a question-by-question guide, order your verifications and NBEO scores, and track the file to a decision; you answer, sign, pay the board and sit every exam. A license is $699 per state, or $799 where the state gives its own exam or interview.