Colorado Optician Requirements
Colorado does NOT require individual opticians to be licensed. You can start working immediately with a high school diploma. However, voluntary ABO/NCLE certification is highly valued in Colorado's competitive optical market.
Voluntary certification available
Annual average (2026)
Can work right away
No License Required in Colorado
Colorado does NOT require opticians to be licensed. The state allows optical professionals to work with only a high school diploma and employer-provided training, leaving professional standards to individual employers.
This means you can immediately apply for entry-level positions at optical retailers, optometry offices, or ophthalmology clinics throughout Colorado. The state's growing population and outdoor lifestyle create consistent demand for eye care professionals.
Colorado's Competitive Optical Market
While Colorado doesn't require licensing, the state's educated population and health-conscious culture mean most professional optical positions prefer or require ABO/NCLE certification. Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs employers especially value certified professionals.
Certification adds $8,800 annually—over $264,000 in a 30-year career.
Voluntary ABO & NCLE Certification
In Colorado's competitive market, ABO/NCLE certification is essential for career advancement and access to premium optical positions.
Colorado certified opticians earn 20-25% more. In high-cost Denver metro, certification often determines who gets hired at premium practices.
Colorado's health-conscious population appreciates professional credentials. Certification builds patient trust and opens doors to specialty practices.
Path to Certification in Colorado
Build Experience
Work 1-2 years in optical retail or private practice. Colorado has many entry points at chains, optometry offices, and ski resort optical shops.
Study for ABO & NCLE
Prepare thoroughly for both national certification exams.
Opterio: Colorado's Choice
Join Colorado opticians who've passed their exams using Opterio's comprehensive study platform with 500+ practice questions.
Start with OpterioTake Exams
Register at ABO-NCLE.org. Testing available at Pearson VUE centers in Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, and Boulder.
$150 ($75 per exam)
70% (88/125 questions)
Maintain & Advance
Renew every 3 years with CE. Leverage certification for promotions and specialty roles.
Training Options in Colorado
Most common path. Large optical retailers provide structured training programs. Colorado's outdoor retail sector (ski resort optical shops) also offers unique learning opportunities.
Timeline: 6-18 months to proficiency; certification-ready after 1-2 years
Colorado has limited in-state programs, but several nearby and online options prepare students for ABO/NCLE certification.
Options for Colorado Students:
- • No in-state community college programs currently
- • Online programs with Colorado clinical sites
- • Nearby: Programs in Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming
Cost: $6,000-$16,000 depending on program
Colorado Optician Salary & Job Outlook
Annual (2026)
Starting
With ABO/NCLE + experience
Salary by Region
| Colorado Region | Average Salary | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Denver Metro | $49,500 | Highest demand |
| Boulder / Fort Collins | $48,200 | Competitive market |
| Colorado Springs | $45,800 | Growing |
| Ski Resort Towns | $47,000 | Seasonal peaks |
| Grand Junction / Pueblo | $42,500 | Lower COL |
Job Market Outlook
Colorado's growing population and outdoor lifestyle drive strong demand for optical services. Projected growth: 6-8% through 2032—above the national average.
Colorado's high altitude and intense UV exposure create unique optical needs. Sports vision and specialty eyewear expertise are valued.
Related Resources
Register for certification exams.
Visit Website →Colorado's trusted ABO & NCLE study platform.
Start Studying →General optician career guides.
View Resources →Find optical training programs.
Explore Programs →Thrive in Colorado's Optical Market
Colorado's competitive market rewards certified professionals. Get ABO/NCLE certified and unlock higher earnings and better opportunities.