Nevada Optician License
Nevada has the most complex and expensive optician licensing requirements in the United States. This guide helps you navigate Nevada's extensive education, examination, and application requirements.
Important: Nevada's Requirements Are Exceptionally Strict
Nevada requires SEVEN separate examinations (more than any other state), a minimum of 2 years formal education PLUS 1 year of experience, and an application fee of $1,250 (highest in the nation). The total cost to obtain licensure can exceed $5,000-$7,000 when including education, exams, and fees.
If you're considering relocating to Nevada as an already-licensed optician, understand that reciprocity is limited and you'll likely need to take additional Nevada-specific exams.
Strictest in the US
Annual average (2026)
Minimum timeline
Nevada's Comprehensive Requirements
Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
You must complete ALL of the following (not "or"):
- 2-Year Degree: Associate degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing from an accredited program, AND
- 100 Clock Hours: Additional supervised clinical training beyond the degree, AND
- 1 Year Experience: 2,000 hours of supervised practical experience in Nevada after completing education
Total minimum timeline: 3+ years (2-year degree + 100 hours + 1 year experience)
Pass all seven examinations:
Estimated total exam fees: $600-$800 (ABO/NCLE + Nevada state exams)
FBI and Nevada state criminal background check required. Fee: $75-$100
Nevada's $1,250 application fee is more than double the national average.
Nevada's Multi-Stage Education Requirements
Stage 1: Associate Degree (2 years)
You must complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing from a COA-accredited program. Nevada does not have in-state programs, so most students attend programs in neighboring states or online programs with Nevada clinical sites.
Common Programs for Nevada Students:
- • Southwestern College (CA) - Close to Nevada
- • Online programs - Several accredited online options with Nevada practicum sites
- • Check with Nevada Board for current approved programs
Cost: $5,000-$20,000 depending on program
Stage 2: 100 Clock Hours Supervised Training
After completing your degree, you must complete an additional 100 clock hours of supervised clinical training under a Nevada-licensed optician, optometrist, or ophthalmologist. This training must be documented and approved by the Nevada Board.
Stage 3: One Year of Experience (2,000 hours)
Finally, you must complete one full year (2,000 hours) of supervised practical experience working in Nevada. This must be done AFTER completing your degree and 100 clock hours.
Critical Timing Requirement
You cannot count the 2,000-hour experience requirement until AFTER you've completed both your associate degree and the 100 clock hours. Many applicants make the mistake of working while in school, expecting those hours to count—they do not.
Nevada's Seven Examinations Explained
Nevada requires more exams than any other state. Here's what to expect:
Standard national certification exams. 125 questions each, 70% passing score, $75 per exam. These are the same exams used in all licensed states.
50-question written exam covering Nevada optician statutes, Board regulations, and scope of practice. Fee: $100
Study materials available from Nevada Board website
Hands-on skills test: lensometry, frame measurements, PD measurements, frame adjustments, and optical calculations. Administered in-person by Nevada Board. Fee: $150
Separate hands-on test for contact lens insertion, removal, and fitting verification. Fee: $150
Written and practical exam covering lens edging, mounting, surfacing, and quality control. Fee: $100
25-question exam on professional ethics, patient confidentiality, and standard of care. Fee: $50
Prepare for Nevada's Complex Exams
Given Nevada's extensive examination requirements, thorough preparation is essential. Start with the national ABO/NCLE exams using Opterio's comprehensive study platform with 500+ practice questions and AI-powered explanations.
Start Studying with OpterioContinuing Education Requirements
Nevada requires 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including a mandatory 2-hour Nevada law and ethics course each cycle.
Per 2-year cycle (including 2 hours NV law)
Biennial fee ($500 late penalty)
Nevada Optician Salary & Job Outlook
Annual average (2026)
Starting range
Experienced opticians
Is Nevada Worth It?
Given Nevada's extensive requirements and high costs, many opticians question whether it's worth pursuing licensure in the state. The average salary is slightly above the national average, but when factoring in the cost of living in Las Vegas or Reno and the $5,000-$7,000 cost to obtain licensure, the return on investment is lower than many other states.
If you're already licensed in another state, consider whether Nevada's requirements justify the effort. Some opticians choose to work in neighboring states with easier licensing and commute to Nevada, though this limits career opportunities.
Related Resources
Official licensing board with detailed requirements.
Visit Website →Register for the ABO and NCLE national exams.
Visit Website →General optician career information.
View Resources →ABO & NCLE study platform for Nevada opticians.
Start Studying →Pursuing Your Nevada Optician License?
Nevada's requirements are the most challenging in the nation, but with proper preparation, you can succeed. Start with comprehensive ABO/NCLE exam prep through Opterio.