Connecticut Optician License
Connecticut requires opticians to be licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. This guide covers all education requirements, ABO/NCLE exams, application process, and career outlook in the Constitution State.
ABO & NCLE exams
Annual average (2026)
Typical timeline
Connecticut Licensing Requirements
The Connecticut Department of Public Health regulates optician licensing. Requirements are comprehensive and align with national standards.
Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Complete one of the following pathways:
- Associate Degree: 2-year AAS in Ophthalmic Dispensing from an accredited program
- Apprenticeship: 2 years (4,000 hours) supervised training under a licensed optician or optometrist
Pass both national certification exams:
Spectacle dispensing - 125 questions, 70% pass
Contact lens fitting - 125 questions, 70% pass
Total exam fees: $150 ($75 each)
Official Connecticut Department
For current requirements and application materials, visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
Visit CT DPH Website →Education & Training Options
Complete an Associate of Applied Science in Ophthalmic Dispensing from a COA-accredited program.
Programs for CT Students:
- • No in-state programs currently
- • Nearby: NYC College of Technology (NY)
- • Online programs with CT clinical sites
- • Check with CT DPH for approved list
Cost: $8,000-$20,000 depending on program
Complete 4,000 hours under a Connecticut-licensed optician or optometrist. Register with CT DPH before starting.
Register First
Must register with Connecticut DPH BEFORE beginning apprenticeship. Unregistered hours won't count.
ABO & NCLE Examinations
Connecticut requires both national exams. Available at Pearson VUE centers in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Bridgeport areas.
Pass Your Connecticut Exams
Prepare for both ABO/NCLE exams with Opterio's proven study system used by thousands of successful opticians.
Start with OpterioContinuing Education
Connecticut requires 20 hours of CE every 2 years for license renewal.
Per 2-year cycle
Biennial
Connecticut Optician Salary & Outlook
Annual (2026)
Starting
Experienced
Job Market
Connecticut's higher cost of living correlates with above-average optician salaries. Strong demand in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Fairfield County. Growth: 3-4% through 2032.
Related Resources
Official licensing authority.
Visit Website →ABO & NCLE prep.
Start Studying →Start Your Connecticut Career
Connecticut offers competitive salaries and strong job stability for licensed opticians.