Kentucky is one of only twenty-three states that require optician licensing by law. Rules and regulations regarding optician training requirements, licensing, and certification are established by the Kentucky Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers. The following information will be relevant to you if you are wanting to be licensed as an optician in the state of Kentucky.

Kentucky State Opticianry Law:

Licensing: KRS 326.030 – KRS 326.990

No person shall engage in the practice of ophthalmic dispensing unless he or she is duly licensed to practice medicine, osteopathy, or optometry in this Commonwealth or unless he or she is the holder of a license as an ophthalmic dispenser.

General Eligibility Requirements:

• More than eighteen (18) years of age
• Of good moral character
• Has graduated from high school or possesses a General Educational Development (GED)

Training Requirements:

• Has at least two (2) years of satisfactory training and experience in ophthalmic dispensing under the supervision of an ophthalmic dispenser, physician, osteopath, or optometrist, or is a graduate of an accepted school of ophthalmic dispensing

Examination Requirements:

• The National Opticianry Competency Examination administered by the American Board of Opticianry
• The National Contact Lens Registry Examination administered by the National Contact Lens Examiners
• A nationally standardized practical examination
  • The practical examination cannot be taken until all other licensure requirements have been completed
  • A grade of 70 or greater is considered passing

Licensure by Reciprocity:

You may be licensed as an ophthalmic dispenser without being required to meet the above standards, with the exception of the practical examination, if you…

• Hold a valid license in another state whose qualifications at the time of licensure were equal to or higher than those requirements established in Kentucky
• Have been actively engaged in the practice of ophthalmic dispensing for a period of two (2) years immediately preceding the date of application

Fees and Forms:

• Application for Dispenser License, $50
• Application for Practical Exam, $50
• Application for Apprenticeship, $50
• Application for Renewal, $50

• Application for Dispenser License
• Application for Practical Exam
• Application for Apprenticeship
• Application for Renewal

State Contact Information:

Phone:          (502) 564-3296 ext 228
Fax:              (502) 696-4961
E-mail:         lindsey.lane@ky.gov

Kentucky Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers
911 Leawood Drive
Frankfort, KY 40601

Web Site:   Kentucky Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers

State Association:   Society of Dispensing Opticians of Kentucky