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 Kentucky
- The Attorney General found past board waivers of NBEO requirements void (OAG 25-13), so a Kentucky license is not proof of a full NBEO record.
- The OEBC exam could replace NBEO Part I only for tests taken or submitted between July 30, 2025 and April 15, 2026.
- Background checks are valid for 60 days, and the application is a sworn statement.
How does an optometrist licensed elsewhere get a Kentucky license?
Endorsement requires active practice for the past five years, proof of a therapeutic license and good-standing certificates from every state ever licensed. Optometrists with fewer than five years use the standard application, which requires NBEO parts passed within five years of applying.
- By endorsement
- Practice required: 5 years of active practice immediately preceding
- Board: Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners
Citation: 201 KAR 5:010E
Which NBEO exams does Kentucky require?
The standard application requires Parts I, II, III and TMOD, all passed within five years of application. The NBEO ISE is required from Jan. 1, 2027.
- NBEO: I, II, III, TMOD
Does Kentucky require a law exam?
A jurisprudence exam, taken only after the completed application, fees and documents are in.
- Board law exam
What scope does a Kentucky license carry?
Graduates of schools that have not confirmed ETP coursework must finish a 32-hour ETP course and be credentialed before their second renewal.
- Tiers: Therapeutic; Expanded Therapeutic Procedures (ETP) credential
- Applicants from other states: Therapeutic license
Citation: Board applicants page
Does Kentucky require a controlled substance license?
Optometrists with a DEA number must register with KASPER, the state prescription monitoring program, or the license will not be renewed.
What does a Kentucky optometry license cost?
- Application: $700 by endorsement or $500 standard, plus a $25 data bank query (as of Oct 2026)
- Renewal: $300 a year (as of Oct 2026)
- Fingerprints required
Citation: Board applicants page; 201 KAR 5:010E
How often does a Kentucky license renew?
The renewal portal opens the first week of December. CE certificates are uploaded to the board portal.
- Renews every year
- Due March 1 each year
Licensing in Kentucky?
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.