License: Ophthalmic Dispenser

500 Mero Street
2 SC 32
Frankfort, KY 40601-0000
(502) 782-8810 ext. 228

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Fits, adjusts or adapts spectacles or contact lenses for customers. EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Graduate of an Approved School of Ophthalmic Dispensing or two (2) years training and experience as an apprentice. EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS For an application, contact the regulatory agency. The Kentucky Practical examination is given in March, July and November each year. The examination fee for the Kentucky Practical is $25.00. You must score an average of 60%, with a minimum of 50% in any of the three (3) sections, and must successfully pass the two (2) national examinations; the National Contact Lens Examiners examination (fee is $125.00) and the American Board of Opticianry examination (fee is $95.00), given in May and November annually. GENERAL INFORMATION for LICENSURE or CERTIFICATION You must be at least eighteen (18) years of age. There are no residency or health requirements. Applicant must have completed at least two (2) years of satisfactory training and work experience as a licensed apprentice, approved by the Board, under a licensed Ophthalmic Dispenser, Physician, Osteopath or Optometrist. License are renewed annually, on December 31, at a fee of $25.00. Kentucky does not have reciprocity agreements with any state. CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (after licensure or certification) Each ophthalmic dispenser licensee shall be required to complete a minimum of six (6) continuing education hours in order to renew his/her license each year. Each apprentice ophthalmic dispenser licensee shall be required to complete a minimum of four (4) continuing education hours in order to renew his/her license each year. Continuing education hours in excess of the number required at the time of renewal may not be applied to future requirements.

  • Stand-alone license
  • Both state and third-party exams required
  • Degree required
  • Continuing education required
  • Experience required
  • No criminal record requirements
License information updated 07/08/2022