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Optometrist License in Mississippi

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Optometrist license in MS. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$400

Processing Time

6-8 Weeks

Exam Required

NBEO

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Optometrist license in Mississippi.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Optometrist training program in Mississippi.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your MS application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NBEO.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Mississippi licensing board and pay the $400 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 6-8 weeks in MS. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Optometrist in Mississippi starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the MS licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the NBEO. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Mississippi state board.

Requirements

The Mississippi licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Optometrist professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the NBEO. MS also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Optometrist license in Mississippi is approximately $400. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. MS also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Mississippi may incur additional penalties of up to $100.

License Fee Calculator — Optometrist in Mississippi

Base License Fee$400
Estimated Total$400

Renewal Process

License renewal for Optometrist professionals in Mississippi occurs on a 2-year cycle. MS charges a renewal fee of $275 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Mississippi at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Optometrist in MS

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Mississippi requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Optometrist professionals in Mississippi continues to grow. MS offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Mississippi provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Optometrist professionals in MS report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Optometrist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Mississippi Optometrist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize MS Optometrist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize MS Optometrist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MS license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts MS Optometrist license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for MS license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize MS Optometrist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize MS Optometrist license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for MS license holders.

Where to File Locally in Mississippi

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Jackson

501 N West St, Jackson, MS 39201

(601) 354-6161

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Gulfport

1100 22nd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501

(228) 868-5700

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Hattiesburg

200 Forrest St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

(601) 545-4500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Southaven

8710 Northwest Dr, Southaven, MS 38671

(662) 393-6212

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Biloxi

140 Lameuse St, Biloxi, MS 39530

(228) 435-6254

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Mississippi Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Mississippi state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.