Pennsylvania Optician Requirements
Pennsylvania does NOT require individual opticians to be licensed. You can start working immediately with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, voluntary ABO/NCLE certification is highly recommended for career growth and higher earnings.
Voluntary certification available
Annual average (2026)
Can work right away
No License Required in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania does NOT require opticians to be licensed. You can legally work as an optician with only a high school diploma and employer-provided training. The state leaves professional standards to individual employers.
This means you can start immediately by applying for entry-level positions at optical retailers, optometry offices, or ophthalmology clinics throughout Pennsylvania. Many opticians begin as optical assistants and advance through on-the-job experience.
Why Get Certified Anyway?
While Pennsylvania doesn't legally require it, most competitive employers prefer or require ABO/NCLE certification. Certified opticians in PA earn significantly more and have access to better positions.
That's an $8,700 annual difference—over $260,000 in a 30-year career.
Voluntary ABO & NCLE Certification
Even without state requirements, pursuing ABO/NCLE certification is one of the smartest career moves for Pennsylvania opticians.
Certified opticians earn 20-25% more than non-certified peers. In Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, many premium optical shops won't even interview without certification.
If you move to a licensed state, your ABO/NCLE credentials will be recognized. Without certification, you'd start from scratch meeting that state's requirements.
How to Get Certified
Gain Experience
Work in optical for 1-2 years while learning fundamentals. Many PA opticians start at chains like Walmart Vision, Target Optical, or private practices.
Study for Exams
Prepare for ABO & NCLE exams with structured study materials.
Prepare with Opterio
Thousands of Pennsylvania opticians have used Opterio's comprehensive platform to pass on their first attempt.
Start with OpterioTake the Exams
Register at ABO-NCLE.org. Exams available at Pearson VUE centers throughout PA (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown, Erie, Scranton).
$150 ($75 per exam)
70% (88/125 questions)
Maintain Certification
Renew every 3 years with continuing education credits to stay current.
Training Options in Pennsylvania
Most PA opticians start as entry-level employees and learn through hands-on experience. Large retailers provide structured training covering measurements, adjustments, and customer service.
Timeline: 6-18 months to proficiency; ready for certification after 1-2 years
For structured education, several Pennsylvania community colleges offer 2-year programs that prepare you for ABO/NCLE exams.
Pennsylvania Programs:
- • Community College of Philadelphia
- • Pennsylvania College of Technology (Williamsport)
- • Several online programs with PA clinical sites
Cost: $5,000-$10,000 for in-state community college (2 years)
Pennsylvania Optician Salary & Job Outlook
Annual (2026)
Starting
With ABO/NCLE + 10+ yrs
Salary by Region
| Pennsylvania Region | Average Salary | Job Market |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Metro | $47,800 | High demand |
| Pittsburgh | $45,200 | Strong market |
| Harrisburg / Lancaster | $43,500 | Moderate |
| Allentown / Scranton | $42,800 | Growing |
| Erie | $40,500 | Steady |
Job Growth Outlook
Pennsylvania has strong demand for optical professionals, especially in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metros. Projected growth: 4-5% through 2032.
PA employs approximately 3,800 opticians, with over 55% in the two major metropolitan areas.
Related Resources
Register for certification exams.
Visit Website →Comprehensive ABO & NCLE study platform.
Start Studying →General optician career guides.
View Resources →Find education programs in Pennsylvania.
Explore Programs →Ready to Advance Your PA Career?
Even without state requirements, getting ABO/NCLE certified is the best investment in your optician career. Start preparing today.