States/Washington

Washington Optician Requirements

License Required

Washington requires opticians to be licensed. Pass ABO + NCLE + practical exams, complete 6,000 hour apprenticeship, and earn CE hours.

License Status

Required

WA Dept of Health

Average Salary

$54,300

Annual (2026)

Time to License

3 years

6,000 hour requirement

Licensing Requirements

1. Complete 6,000 Hour Apprenticeship

Work under a licensed optician or optometrist for 6,000 hours (approx. 3 years full-time).

Washington requires 6,000 hours (more than the typical 4,000 hours).

2. Pass National + Practical Exams

ABO Exam: Tests optical theory, lens knowledge, frame selection, measurements.
NCLE Exam: Tests contact lens fitting, patient education, safety, troubleshooting.
WA Practical Exam: State-administered hands-on exam testing dispensing skills.

Prepare with Opterio

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

3. Apply for WA License

Submit application, apprenticeship records, exam scores, fees to WA Dept of Health.

CE hours required

Topics: optics, contact lenses, ethics, regulations.

$54,300

Average

$44,000

Entry

$70,000

Senior

Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver. Growth: 4-5% through 2032.

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