Hawaii Optician Requirements
License Required
Hawaii requires opticians to be licensed. Pass ABO + NCLE exams, complete education or apprenticeship, and earn CE hours.
License Status
Required
HI State Board
Average Salary
$51,200
Annual (2026)
Time to License
2-3 years
Typical timeline
Licensing Requirements
1. Education or Apprenticeship
Option A: Formal Education
Complete an associate degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing (2 years).
Option B: Apprenticeship
Complete 4,000 hours (approx. 2 years full-time).
2. Pass National Exams
- ABO Exam
- NCLE Exam
Prepare with Opterio
Start with OpterioHI Salary & Outlook
$51,200
Average
$41,000
Entry
$67,000
Senior
Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo. Growth: 4-5%.