South Carolina Board of Examiners in Optometry

Frequently Asked Questions

Are applicants for licensure required to take a South Carolina Jurisprudence examination?

Yes.

How often is the South Carolina Jurisprudence Examination offered?

This is an online examination available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week upon approval by the Board.

Are licensees required to submit proof of continuing education to renew a license?

All licensees are required to obtain 40 hours of continuing education. You are only to submit your continuing education if you are audited.

Continuing Education

If I received my license during a nonrenewal year, will I still be responsible for 40 hours of continuing education?

No. If you received your license during a nonrenewal year (odd years), you will only be responsible for 20 hours of continuing education.

How can I get a Continuing Education course approved by the Board?

Please submit your request in writing by mail or email, contact.optometry@llr.sc.gov. Please submit all details concerning your course (agenda, subject matter, and sponsor).

Are Optometrists required to release a contact lens prescription?

Yes, after a contact lens fitting has been completed.

What is the difference between licensure by credential and license by endorsement?

Licensure by Credentials applicant must have passed the National Board of Examiners in Optometry Parts I, II, III, and the TMOD.

Licensure by Endorsement applicant must be currently licensed in another jurisdiction, have practiced at the therapeutic level during the preceding twelve months or twenty-four of the last thirty-six months, and is authorized by law to treat glaucoma. The Endorsement is the process in which the State Board of Optometry assesses the equivalency of an individual applicant’s credentials to that state’s own licensure standards, regardless of interstate contractual agreements. If the Board determines that the standards are, licensure is granted. If the Board determines that a candidate’s credentials do not sufficiently meet state standards, the Board may require additional testing, etc. prior to granting licensure by endorsement. A state law exam could be one the standards.

Does South Carolina share reciprocity with any other State in regards to licensure in Optometry?

South Carolina does not share reciprocity with any other State in regards to licensure in Optometry.

What are the fee requirements for renewing my Optometry license?

Biennial renewal fees are $230.00. Registration renewal fees are due by December 31 of even numbered years. There is a $50.00 late fee if renewed during the month of January.

How do I renew my Optometry license?

Renewal notices are sent at least three months to the expiration date to all licensees with instructions on how to renew online. You will be unable to renew your license prior to the renewal notices being mailed.