How to Apply for a License to Practice Optometry in Alabama
 

The Standard Examination for Licensure in Alabama is only administered once per year. The next administration date will be on in July 19, 2025 in Birmingham, Alabama. You may obtain a license to practice optometry in Alabama as a new graduate, or through reciprocity. Download and print a 2025 application (in .pdf format), DOWNLOAD HERE or you may mail, fax, or email a request for an application to the Executive Director.  Applications for licensure are accepted at any time, however, all candidates must sit for the standard examination, which is administered once per year.

Recent Graduate Qualifications:
1. Complete the Alabama Board of Optometry Application for 2025 Examination form.
2. Submit proof by official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtained the following:
a. Pre-optometry (minimum of three years or the equivalent thereof).
b. Optometry Degree (four years of professional study and the transcript must list the entrance and graduation dates).
3. Complete the background check requirement.
4. Submit proof that you have passes Parts I and II of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry.
5. After passing the standard examination given by the Alabama Board of Optometry, you must submit proof that you have passed Part III of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry before you can receive your license.
6. After passing the Board's standard examination, you must complete and submit to the Board for approval a protocol furnished by the Board for the use of pharmaceutical agents in the treatment of the eye and its adjacent structures.

Note:  New graduates (only new graduates) may request a temporary (non-therapeutic) license (issued after official graduation, if application for licensure is complete) so that they may practice optometry while preparing for the board exam (see Administrative Code 630-X-9-.01)

Reciprocity Qualifications:
1. Complete the Alabama Board of Optometry Application for 2025 Examination form.
2. Submit proof by official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtained the following:
a. Pre-optometry (minimum of three years or the equivalent thereof).
b. Optometry Degree (four years of professional study and the transcript must list the entrance and graduation dates).
3. Complete the background check requirement.
4. Submit proof by affidavit from a board of optometry in the United States that you have successfully passed the licensing requirements for that board and that you hold a current license to practice optometry in that state.
5. After passing the Board's standard examination, you must complete and submit to the Board for approval a protocol furnished by the Board for the use of pharmaceutical agents in the treatment of the eye and its adjacent structures.

The same application may be used for new graduate or reciprocity licensure. Download the application (.pdf format) here.