Illinois Optician Requirements
Illinois does not require individual opticians to be licensed. You can start working with just a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, voluntary ABO/NCLE certification is strongly recommended for better job opportunities and higher pay.
Voluntary certification available
Annual average (2026)
Can work right away
Is an Optician License Required in Illinois?
No, Illinois does NOT require opticians to be licensed. You can legally work as an optician with only a high school diploma and employer-provided training. Illinois leaves professional standards up to individual employers rather than state regulation.
This means you can start your optical career immediately by applying for entry-level positions at optical retailers, optometry offices, or ophthalmology clinics. Many Illinois opticians begin as optical assistants or frame stylists and learn on the job.
Why Certification Still Matters
While Illinois doesn't legally require certification, most competitive employers prefer or require ABO/NCLE certification. Certified opticians in Illinois earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers and have access to better career opportunities.
Bottom line: You can start working immediately, but pursuing voluntary certification is the smart long-term strategy for career growth and higher earnings.
Voluntary ABO & NCLE Certification
Even though Illinois doesn't require licensing, pursuing ABO and NCLE certification is one of the best career decisions you can make. National certification demonstrates professional competence and opens doors to premium optical positions.
Illinois opticians with ABO/NCLE certification earn an average of $49,800/year compared to $41,200/year for non-certified. That's an $8,600 annual difference.
Over a 30-year career, certification adds approximately $258,000 in lifetime earnings.
Private optometry practices, medical eye centers, and premium optical boutiques in Chicago and suburbs almost exclusively hire certified opticians. Certification is often required for lead technician and management positions.
If you ever move to a licensed state (Florida, New York, California, etc.), your ABO/NCLE certification will be recognized and may satisfy most of their licensing requirements. Without it, you'd need to start over.
Patients recognize and appreciate certification. It builds trust and demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence. Optometrists and ophthalmologists you work with will also take you more seriously.
How to Get Certified in Illinois
Gain Practical Experience
Work in an optical setting for 1-2 years while learning the fundamentals. Many Illinois opticians start as optical assistants at chains like LensCrafters, Costco, or private practices and work their way up through hands-on training.
Study for ABO & NCLE Exams
Both exams are challenging and require dedicated preparation. Even though Illinois doesn't require them, the exams themselves are the same nationwide standard.
Prepare with Opterio
Opterio offers comprehensive ABO/NCLE prep with 500+ practice questions, AI-powered explanations, and intelligent spaced repetition. Thousands of Illinois opticians have used Opterio to pass on their first attempt.
Start Studying with OpterioTake the Exams
Register through ABO-NCLE.org. Both exams are computer-based and available at Pearson VUE centers throughout Illinois (Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield, etc.).
$75 per exam ($150 total for both)
70% (88 out of 125 questions)
Maintain Certification
ABO and NCLE certifications are valid for 3 years. Renew by completing continuing education credits through approved providers to stay current with industry advances.
Optician Training Options in Illinois
Illinois offers multiple pathways to gain optical skills, from on-the-job training to formal degree programs:
The majority of Illinois opticians start as entry-level employees and learn through hands-on experience. Large retail chains provide structured training programs covering frame selection, measurements, adjustments, and customer service.
Timeline: 6-18 months to become proficient; ready for ABO/NCLE after 1-2 years
For those who want structured education, Illinois has several community colleges offering Associate of Applied Science degrees in Ophthalmic Technology. These 2-year programs prepare you for ABO/NCLE exams and advanced careers.
Illinois Programs:
- • Triton College - River Grove (Chicago area)
- • Southwestern Illinois College - Belleville
- • Several online programs with Illinois clinical sites
Cost: $4,000-$8,000 for in-state community college tuition (2 years)
If you're already working in an optical setting, supplement your training with online courses. The NAO (National Association of Opticians) offers a "Career Progression Program" covering all ABO/NCLE exam topics.
Cost: $300-$800; flexible study at your own pace
Career Path in Illinois
Here's a typical career progression for Illinois opticians:
Entry-Level: Optical Assistant
Start with basic tasks like greeting customers, cleaning frames, and assisting with frame selection. Learn the optical retail environment fundamentals.
Salary: $30,000-$35,000/year
Junior Optician
Begin taking measurements, performing frame adjustments, and assisting with lens orders under supervision.
Salary: $35,000-$42,000/year
Certified Optician
After passing ABO/NCLE, you're recognized as a professional optician. Work independently, handle complex prescriptions, fit contact lenses, and train new staff.
Salary: $45,000-$58,000/year
Senior Optician / Manager
With experience and certification, move into leadership roles, lab management, or business ownership.
Salary: $58,000-$75,000/year
Illinois Optician Salary & Job Outlook
Annual average (2026)
Starting range
With ABO/NCLE + 10+ years
Salary by Region
| Illinois Region | Average Salary | Job Market |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Metro | $48,500 | High demand |
| Suburbs (DuPage, Lake) | $47,200 | High demand |
| Rockford | $42,800 | Moderate |
| Peoria | $41,500 | Moderate |
| Springfield | $40,200 | Lower COL |
Job Growth Outlook
Illinois has strong demand for optical professionals, especially in the Chicago metro area. The state's large population and concentration of medical facilities create robust opportunities. Projected growth: 4-5% through 2032.
Illinois employs approximately 3,200 opticians, with over 60% working in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Related Resources
Register for the ABO and NCLE national certification exams.
Visit Website →General optician career information and training guides.
View Resources →Comprehensive ABO & NCLE study platform for Illinois opticians.
Start Studying →National Association of Opticians online training program.
Learn More →Ready to Advance Your Illinois Optician Career?
Even though Illinois doesn't require licensing, getting ABO/NCLE certified is the smartest investment in your career. Start preparing today with Opterio's proven study system.