Q: How can I verify when my license has been issued?
A: You will receive a licensure packet in the mail, including your license cards and a decorative wall certificate. Licensure status may also be verified by clicking on the link entitled License and Registration Search.
Q: I have let my license lapse, what must I do to activate that license?
A: A license that has been lapsed less than five years may be reinstated upon submission of a renewal application together with the payment of all back renewal fees, a license re-instatement fee, and proof of completion of continuing education as required in the rules. If a license has been lapsed for more than five years, a new application for licensure is required.
Q: How do I request a duplicate license?
A: The license/registration issued to you by the Division is public proof that you are entitled to pursue certain activities regulated by Idaho Law. If your license/registration becomes lost or destroyed, you may obtain a replacement from the Division. A replacement may also be requested if you have changed your name or address and wish to receive a license/registration bearing the updated information.
You may complete the Application for Duplicate License form online, print it out and sign it, and send it with the fee required by Idaho law to the Division. Your application will not be processed unless the fee is received with the application. A replacement card will be sent to the mailing address.
Q: How do I request an official verification of my license in Idaho?
A: Each state requires different forms of certification of licensure. Please check with the state where you are applying to see what is required before requesting certification from Idaho. Certifications can be obtained two ways from Idaho, both through your Online Services account, they can be found under the “Menu” option once logged into your account:
- A free Letter of Good Standing may be obtained through your Online Services Account. This letter contains
all public information (not exam scores).
- From your online profile select the “Menu” link in the tile of the license you want a letter for.
- Select “Request a Good Standing Letter”.
- If the receiving state doesn’t accept web-based certifications or requires information exempt from third-party disclosure (example: exam scores) to be included in the certification, you will need to request a Certified Licensure History Letter through your Online Services account. There is a $10.00 fee for this service and you will be able to pay through your online account.
- From your online profile select the “Menu” link in the tile of the license you want a letter for.
- Select “Request a Certified Licensure History Letter”.
- You will be prompted to answer a question and proceed through a
payment process.
Q: What are the continuing education requirements to maintain my license?
A: The Board of Optometry has reviewed its Continuing Education requirements. As of 3/28/2023 the new requirements are in effect. Please review the Continuing Education Guidance.
Q: How do I tell if an Optometry licensee has diagnostic and therapeutic privileges?
A: If the license starts with OD, then the licensee does not have diagnostic or therapeutic privileges. If the license starts with ODD, then the licensee only has diagnostic privileges. If the license starts with ODP, then the licensee holds both diagnostic and therapeutic privileges.
Q: Can I legally sell and dispense pharmaceutical agents from my practice?
A: Yes, provided you obtain Prescriber Drug Outlet Registration from the Idaho State Board of Pharmacy and comply with all laws and rules regarding the storage, patient counseling, packaging, dispensing technique and labeling of such agents.