| License Description |
Optometrists diagnose and treat optical defects, deficiencies, deformities, or diseases of the human eye, or any visual or muscular anomaly of the visual system. They adapt or prescribe spectacle lenses, contact lenses, prisms, or ocular exercises for correction, relief, or aid of visual functions. Some are certified to prescribe, administer, or dispense pharmaceutical agents and therapeutic contact lenses.
Legislation: NH RSA 327; Administrative Rules Chapter Opt 100-600
Licensure Requirements:
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Good moral character
- Complete a minimum of two years at a college of arts and sciences
- Graduate from an accredited college of optometry, maintaining a minimum of four years in optometric training
- Must pass the National Board Examinations
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
- Optometrists seeking authorization to treat glaucoma must complete 40 hours of classroom education approved by the Board on topics related to glaucoma
- Letters of reference from two practicing optometrists who know the applicant professionally
Examination: Written examinations required – National Board of Examiners in Optometry Exam Parts I, II, and III; and State examinations. An additional examination is required for optometrists seeking authorization to treat glaucoma.
Continuing Education: All TPA (therapeutic pharmaceutical agents) certified licensed optometrists shall complete a minimum of 50 credit hours of approved continuing education requirements every calendar year, at least 20 credit hours of which shall be in Class I, and the remainder of which shall be Class II. An optometrist with prescriptive authority to treat glaucoma shall complete ten of the required hours in glaucoma-specific education, with a minimum of seven hours in Class I, and the remainder in Class II. All non-TPA certified licensed optometrists shall complete 15 hours of Class I credits each calendar year.
Fees:
- Initial Application, including state examination fee: $300
- Biennial Renewal: $300
- Application for TPA certification: $25
- License reinstatement: $200
All fees are subject to change
Reciprocity: Not permitted, however, there is licensure by endorsement
revised Jan 2018 |