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 Hawaii
- The 100-hour ophthalmologist preceptorship for TPA certification surprises many out-of-state applicants.
- A license issued in an odd year costs less because it runs only to that Dec. 31.
How does an optometrist licensed elsewhere get a Hawaii license?
Any applicant who graduated from an ACOE-accredited school and passed NBEO Parts I, II and III can apply. Reciprocity is a separate route: continuous practice for four of the five years before applying, a home state granting Hawaii licensees like privileges, and equivalent education.
- On NBEO scores
- Board: Hawaii Board of Examiners in Optometry
Citation: Haw. Rev. Stat. ch. 459; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-92-10
Which NBEO exams does Hawaii require?
Parts I, II and III for the license. TMOD is required separately for TPA certification.
- NBEO: I, II, III
What scope does a Hawaii license carry?
TPA certification needs TMOD, a 100-hour ocular disease course (school verification works for graduates after 1997) and a 100-hour preceptorship under an ophthalmologist. The fee is $42.
- Tiers: Optometrist, TPA certification
Citation: Board FAQ
What does a Hawaii optometry license cost?
- Application: $242 if issued in an even year; $107 if issued in an odd year (as of Oct 2026)
- Renewal: $270 every 2 years (as of Oct 2026)
Citation: Board FAQ; board home page
How often does a Hawaii license renew?
Every license renews by Dec. 31 of odd years regardless of issue date. Unrenewed licenses are forfeited and can be restored within four years.
- Renews every two years
- Due Dec. 31 of odd years
Licensing in Hawaii?
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.