The Board recommends applicants apply via the online application. (Step by Step Guide to Applying Online.) If preferred, a paper application can be found at the bottom of this page.
All fees associated with the application process are non-transferable and non-refundable. Once the application is accepted, fees cannot be refunded if there is a failure to complete the application process.
Online Application
STEP 1: Apply at Online Application.
STEP 2: Choose the “New User” area after clicking the link above. Follow the directions to sign up and register for an online account.
STEP 3: Once registered, you will see “Start a New Application.” Choose “Texas Optometry Board” from the first pulldown menu and then either “Acceptance Application” or “LWOE Acceptance Application” from the second pulldown menu. Note: Choose “Acceptance Application” only if you have taken all parts of the NBEO. If you haven’t taken NBEO Part 3, then “LWOE” is the correct option (see HERE).
STEP 4: Follow the directions to complete your license application and pay the application fee. There will be an area to upload attachments of documents, but remember that certain documents are required to be original or received from a verified source. Required original documents include the following: official final optometry school transcript, NPBD report (in sealed envelope from NPDB or secured PDF), and any official license verifications (if applicable).
STEP 5: Register with the NBEO to take the Jurisprudence Examination. The Jurisprudence Examination covers the Texas Optometry Act, Contact Lens Prescription Act, Healing Art Identification Act, and Board Rules.
STEP 6: Mail any required additional documents that were not attached to the online application. Request official Optometry School transcript and NPDB self-query be sent to the Optometry Board.
STEP 7: Submit fingerprints as instructed.
Paper Application
Paper Application (ADD PDF)