Georgia Optician License
Georgia requires opticians to be licensed by the Georgia State Board of Dispensing Opticians. This comprehensive guide covers education requirements, ABO/NCLE exams, application process, and career outlook in the Peach State.
ABO & NCLE exams
Annual average (2026)
Typical timeline
Georgia Licensing Requirements
The Georgia State Board of Dispensing Opticians requires all dispensing opticians to hold an active license. Georgia's requirements are moderate and follow 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) of supervised training under a licensed optician or optometrist
Pass both national exams:
125 questions, 70% passing score
125 questions, 70% passing score
Combined exam fee: $150 ($75 each)
Georgia requires a criminal background check. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and professional conduct.
Official Georgia Board
For current requirements, application forms, and board meetings, visit the Georgia State Board of Dispensing Opticians website.
Visit Georgia Board Website →Education & Training Pathways
Complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing from a COA-accredited program. Covers optical theory, anatomy, dispensing, contact lenses, and lab procedures.
Programs for Georgia Students:
- • No in-state programs currently
- • Nearby: Hillsborough CC (FL)
- • Online programs with GA clinical sites
- • Check with Board for approved list
Cost: $6,000-$16,000 (varies by program)
Complete 4,000 hours (approximately 2 years full-time) under a Georgia-licensed optician or optometrist. Must register with the Board as an apprentice before starting.
Critical Requirement
Register with the Georgia Board BEFORE beginning your apprenticeship. Hours logged before registration do not count toward the 4,000-hour requirement.
Supervisor Requirements: Must be licensed in Georgia for at least 2 years and maintain good standing.
ABO & NCLE Examination Details
Georgia requires both ABO and NCLE national exams. These are standardized, computer-based exams available at Pearson VUE centers throughout Georgia (Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Columbus, Macon).
Covers optical calculations, lens properties, frame dispensing, and patient measurements.
Covers contact lens types, fitting procedures, patient education, and troubleshooting.
Prepare for Your Georgia Optician Exams
Georgia opticians trust Opterio for ABO/NCLE exam preparation. Get access to comprehensive study materials, 500+ practice questions, and timed exam simulations that mirror the real test.
Start Studying with OpterioGeorgia License Application Process
Complete Education or Apprenticeship
Graduate from an accredited program or complete 4,000 registered apprenticeship hours.
Pass ABO & NCLE Exams
Successfully pass both national certification exams with scores of 70% or higher.
Submit Application to Georgia Board
Complete application form with proof of education/apprenticeship, exam scores, and references.
Background Check
Submit fingerprints for criminal background check (FBI and Georgia).
Pay Fees & Receive License
Pay $175 application fee plus $60 background check. Once approved, receive your Georgia optician license.
Processing Time
The Georgia Board typically processes complete applications within 4-8 weeks. Submit all materials at once for fastest processing.
Continuing Education Requirements
Georgia requires 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain your license. CE must be from Board-approved providers.
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Biennial renewal fee
Approved CE Providers: ABO, NCLE, COPE, Optical Laboratories Association, and other Board-approved organizations.
Georgia Optician Salary & Job Outlook
Annual (2026)
Starting range
Experienced
Job Market Outlook
Georgia's growing population (especially in the Atlanta metro area) creates strong demand for optical professionals. Job growth projected at 5-7% through 2032.
Major employment areas: Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Columbus, Macon, and Athens.
Salary by Region
Related Resources
Official licensing board.
Visit Website →Register for exams.
Visit Website →ABO & NCLE study platform.
Start Studying →General optician guides.
View Resources →Start Your Georgia Optician Career
Georgia's growing population and moderate licensing requirements make it an excellent state for optical professionals. Begin your journey today.