All applicants that have not graduated from an optometry school that has confirmed the Expanded Therapeutic (ETP) coursework is included in its curriculum, must complete a 32-hour ETP course and be credentialed prior to the 2nd renewal of license. If you are active military or a military veteran, please notify the board office at the time you apply for a license.
Create an account and apply online *Coming soon*
License Applications
The type of application required for licensure depends on how many years you've been practicing.
Application, Less than 5 years [PDF, 317 KB]
Application, More than 5 years [PDF, 308 KB]
Initial License Requirements
- Applicant shall be at least 18 years of age and of good moral character
- Applicant shall submit an application furnished by the Board (application portal coming soon)
- Applicant shall be a graduate of an accredited school or college of optometry accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education
- Certified copies of transcripts from undergraduate and optometry school are required
- Applicant shall pass all Parts of National Boards*
- Applicant shall pass a Jurisprudence Examination
- A $500 application fee payable to Kentucky State Treasurer
- A $25 payment to cover cost of the Healthcare Integrity and Protection Database query
- Satisfactory FBI background report through Identogo
- Applicant shall furnish all other information requested by the Board as stated on the application
Licensure by Endorsement Requirements
- Applicant shall submit an application furnished by
the Board (application can be downloaded from
this website) - Applicant shall furnish verification of being in active practice the past five (5) years
- Certified transcripts of undergraduate and optometry school are required
- A certificate of good standing from the board(s) where the applicant is currently licensed and from all state boards where the applicant has held a license in the past
- Copy of credential that proves the applicant is therapeutically licensed
- A $700 application fee payable to Kentucky State Treasurer
- A $25 fee to cover cost of a Healthcare Integrity and Protection Database query
- Applicant shall furnish all other information requested by the Board as stated on the application
- Satisfactory FBI background report
*Graduates of Accredited Optometry Schools in the graduating classes of 2020 through 2023 are not required to have passed Part III of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO®), including the Injections Skill Exam (ISE®).