HowToGetLicensed

Optician License: California vs Georgia

Thinking about getting your optician license? Here's how California and Georgia compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Georgia
Education Hours 0 hours 1500 hours
Exam ABO Certification Exam ABO and NCLE Certification Exams plus State Practical
Application Fee $575 $200
Exam Fee $125 $250
Total Estimated Cost $7,500 - $8,500 $11,500 - $12,500
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 0 hours 10 hours
Renewal Fee $275 $150

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: California is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $7,500-$8,500 compared to $11,500-$12,500.

Fewer education hours: California requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1500 hours in Georgia.

Full State Guides

Compare optician requirements across all 50 states →