How to Become an Optician in Wyoming

Perhaps you are looking for a career change and live in Wyoming.

In such a case, starting a career as an optician could be the ideal choice for you.

So, read on if you need more information on how to get licensed in this state!

Optician Job Duties

Many folks start their journey to become opticians by joining training programs.

As an eyewear expert in Wyoming, your role involves assisting clients in selecting the perfect glasses without prescribing prescriptions.

Your daily tasks include:

• Preparing eyewear
• Fitting and adjusting eyewear
• Educating customers about eyewear issues and maintenance
• Keeping sales records
• Determining insurance co-pays
• Keeping the inventory
• Interacting with the labs that make lenses

Optician Training in Wyoming

Obtaining a license is a requisite for opticians in Wyoming, but there are added advantages to pursuing certification, such as an improved salary.

Getting into the field of opticianry in Wyoming is quite straightforward, and you can easily enroll in a training program at a post-secondary school.

Casper College 

Wyoming boasts a single school dedicated to aspiring opticians.

Casper College offers a practical pre-optometry program leading to an Associate’s degree.

This requires approximately two years to complete.

There are no special requirements to be met to enroll in this course.

Otero College

You can enroll at any time for this fully online optician training program, and no specific requirements are needed.

While having a high school diploma or equivalent is recommended, it serves as the minimum requirement for the ABO exam.

Successful completion of the program leads to obtaining a certificate.

For individuals pursuing a degree, there’s the option to enroll in the Bridge to Bachelor’s degree, which can be chosen during initial enrollment or the first semester.

It’s advisable to confirm the inclusion of the optometry program by checking with the college and the department.

Before diving into an optician program, there are a few prerequisites you need to fulfill.

These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completing specific classes with a minimum grade of C
• 2 letters of recommendation
• OAT scores – not older than 5 years
• Minimum GPA of 2.75

Optician programs vary in duration, lasting anywhere from a quick 7 months to several years, depending on whether you opt for a basic or advanced degree.

Pursuing a higher degree over a more extended period may enhance your job prospects post-licensure.

During your training, you’ll engage in a mix of theory and practical classes, covering topics like:

• Introduction to Optometry
• Ocular Anatomy
• Systems 1: Neuroscience
• Ocular Microbiology
• Ophthalmic Imaging
• Public Health Optometry
• Glaucoma
• Physics

Certification or Licensure for an Optician in Wyoming

In Wyoming, the authority issuing optician licenses is the Wyoming Optometry Board.

To obtain a license from the Wyoming Board of Examiners in Optometry, certain steps must be followed:

• Completion of a 4-year optometry educational program
• Passing the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exam
• Scoring at least 75% on the state exam

Candidates aiming to become licensed opticians must also pass the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE).

This test is administered by the ABO, and consists of three levels:

• Beginner
• Intermediate
• Advanced

For the Beginner level, candidates need to demonstrate proficiency in:

• Reading prescriptions,
• Fitting and dispensing spectacles
• Using standard ophthalmic equipment

Opting for the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) opens the possibility of becoming a licensed lens dispenser.

The CLRE covers topics such as:

• Pre-fitting for lenses,
• Diagnostic fitting,
• Dispensing of lenses,
• Patient education,
• Delivery
• Follow-up

Meeting certain criteria, including:

• Age over 18
• A high school diploma or GED
• To fill out an application
• To pay some fees
• A clean criminal record

Optician Certification Renewal

Optician licenses in Wyoming necessitate renewal every two years.

License holders are required to take 40 additional education classes during this period.

This ensures that opticians stay updated and maintain their proficiency in the field.

Optician Salary in Wyoming

After obtaining your certification, you’re ready to jump into the working world as an optician.

When it comes to the typical annual salary for opticians in Wyoming, usually stands at around $48,800.

However, your actual earnings depend on factors such as your workplace and the level of experience you bring to the role.

For a detailed breakdown of optician salaries in this state, check out the information provided in the table below.

Regional Salary in Wyoming

Optician Schools by State