Where to find the answers....
If you are considering moving to Washington State, please read the following. If you have additional questions, please contact Judy Haenke, Department of Health, directly at:
OR
Judy Haenke
(360) 236-4947
Fax (360) 586-0745
She will be able to give you answers about optician licensure and testing.
The State of Washington requires a 2 year degree in Opticianry from an approved Accredited School of Opticianry, or 6,000 hours of State Registered Apprenticeship, or an equivalent of 5 years documented work history in order to sit for the state board exam.
In Washington, the Licensed Dispensing Opticians (L.D.O.'s) are able to manufacture and dispense spectacles as well as fit and dispense contact lenses. At this time, the Department of Health does not require National Certification (ABOC/NCLC) in order to be licensed.
After meeting the requirements of licensure, you must sit for the State Board exam. This contains 3 sections consisting of optical theory, lens fabrication, and contact lens clinical.
Once you receive your license, you are required to take Continuing Education Credits which are turned in every 3 years on/or before the date of your birth.
The Opticians Association of Washington provides Continuing Education Credits at their annual conventions held in April and October of each year. If you are interested in attending or have questions regarding how to obtain credits, please contact our Educational Chairperson or you may contact the OAW office for additional assistance.
OAW Office / Legislation / Education / Convention / Membership