States/New Hampshire

New Hampshire Optician Requirements

License Required

New Hampshire requires opticians to be licensed. Pass ABO + NCLE exams, complete education or apprenticeship, and earn 20 CE hours every 2 years.

License Status

Required

NH Board of Opticianry

Average Salary

$49,100

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 from an accredited program (2 years).

Option B: Apprenticeship

Complete 4,000 hours (approx. 2 years full-time) under a licensed optician or optometrist.

2. Pass National Exams

ABO Exam: Tests optical theory, lens knowledge, frame selection, measurements.
NCLE Exam: Tests contact lens fitting, patient education, safety, troubleshooting.

Prepare with Opterio

NH opticians trust Opterio for comprehensive ABO/NCLE exam prep.

Start with Opterio

3. Apply for NH License

Submit application, transcripts/apprenticeship records, exam scores, fees.

NH Board of Opticianry

Continuing Education (CE)

20 CE hours every 2 years

Topics: optics, contact lenses, ethics, regulations. Must be completed by renewal date.

NH Salary & Outlook

$49,100

Average

$40,000

Entry

$64,000

Senior

Manchester, Nashua, Concord. Growth: 4-5% through 2032.

Get Licensed in New Hampshire

Pass ABO + NCLE exams with confidence using Opterio's comprehensive prep platform.

Start with Opterio View Other States