The Board of Examiners in Optometry

Frequently Asked Questions

• Application Processing Time
• Applications & Forms
• Board Advisories
• Certified True Copy
• License File and Public Information
• License Lapse Date
• Name/Address Change
• Renewal Fee
• Renewal Notice
• Requirements for License
• Scanned or Faxed Documents
• Verify a License

How long does it take to process my application?

Plan 4 to 6 weeks for the application process. You can avoid delays by making sure you follow the directions and complete the application correctly. You must submit the correct fees and supporting documentation in the proper format. Source documents must come directly from the providers. In order for your application to be scheduled for review by the board at its next regularly scheduled meeting, a complete application for certification and all supporting documents must be received by the division’s Juneau office at least 30 days before the date of the next regularly scheduled meeting of the board.

How do I find a form?

Visit the Applications and Forms page for Optometry.

Where Can I find the board advisories?

Visit the Board Members and Advisories webpage.

How do I get a “Certified True Copy”?

To obtain a Certified True Copy, take the original document and a photocopy to a notary public so he/she may compare the original to the photocopy of the document. Either the applicant or the notary must write, “I certify this to be a true copy of the original document” on the photocopy and attest to that fact by signing the document and having it notarized.

Is my license record public information?

Yes, licensing records are public documents and available to members of the public upon written request and payment of copying fees. Information considered confidential and not releasable to the general public include social security numbers and other information considered confidential by state or federal law. Your address of record is public information and is displayed in the division’s internet licensing search program. Licensees have elected to have a post office box or practice location for their official address of record to avoid having their residential address easily accessible. Please be advised that all notices from the Board (renewal notices, licenses and other legal documents) will be mailed to the address of record provided.

When does my license lapse?

All licenses issued by the Board of Examiners in Optometry expire on December 31st of even-numbered years regardless of when issued, except new licenses issued within 90 days of the expiration date will be issued to the next biennium.

How do I submit a Name/Address Change?

It is your responsibility to notify this office of name/address changes and to keep this information on record current.

The name appearing on your license must be your current legal name. If you have changed your name, you must submit the Name/Address Change form (#08-4291), as well as a copy of the legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.) supporting your name change.

Do I have to pay the full renewal fee since I was just issued a permanent license within the past year?

No. Licensees who received a permanent license within one year of the current expiration date do have to renew but will pay only one-half of the renewal fee.

When will I receive my renewal notice?

Renewal notices are provided at least 30 days prior to the expiration date on file, in accordance with AS 08.01.050. Login to the MY LICENSE self-service portal to ensure your contact information is up to date. Failure to receive a renewal notice does not relieve a licensee from the responsibility of renewing a license on time.

What are the requirements to qualify for an Optometry license in the state of Alaska?

Application instructions are in the front of the application packet. For additional information, including education and experience requirements, you may review the statutes and regulations on the website.

Can I submit scanned or faxed copies to complete my application?

No. Scanned or faxed documents are not acceptable.

How do I verify my license to another agency?

Effective November 22, 2022, Alaska is providing primary source license verifications directly through our website. Requests and fees for verifications of licensure are no longer necessary. To obtain primary source verifications, utilize our Professional License Search Tool.

Do you have another question?

Please fill out our Customer Contact Form for the fastest response.

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