How to Apply for a License to Practice Optometry in Alabama
 

You may obtain a license to practice optometry in Alabama as (1) a new graduate, or (2) through reciprocity. You may download and print a 2008 application (in .pdf format) HERE , or you may mail, fax, or email a request for an application to the Executive Director.

The standard examination is only given once per year. The next administration will be on July 12, 2008, in Birmingham, Alabama.

Recent Graduate Qualifications for 2008:
1. Complete the Alabama Board of Optometry Application for 2008 Examination form.
2. Submit proof by official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtained the following:
a. Preliminary education (four years of high school or the equivalent thereof).
b. Pre-optometry (minimum of three years or the equivalent thereof).
c. Optometry Degree (four years of professional study and the transcript must list the entrance and graduation dates).
3. Submit proof that you have passes Parts I and II of the examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry.
4. 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.
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.

Reciprocity Qualifications for 2008:
1. Complete the Alabama Board of Optometry Application for 2008 Examination form.
2. Submit proof by official transcript from the various schools and colleges that you have obtained the following:
a. Preliminary education (four years of high school or the equivalent thereof).
b. Pre-optometry (minimum of three years or the equivalent thereof).
c. Optometry Degree (four years of professional study and the transcript must list the entrance and graduation dates).
3. 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.
4. 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 2008 application (.pdf format) here.