Opticians, Dispensing
Dispensing opticians design, measure, and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions from eye care professionals. They help customers select frames, take measurements, and teach proper lens care and insertion techniques. Opticians work in optical shops, eyeglass stores, and ophthalmology offices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A dispensing optician spends time with customers reviewing prescriptions and discussing eyeglass or contact lens options. They take precise measurements of the face and eyes, adjust frames for proper fit, and inspect finished lenses for accuracy. Administrative tasks include processing orders, managing inventory, and recording customer information. Some days involve training customers on contact lens care or troubleshooting fitting problems.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer structured, rule-based work and enjoy hands-on tasks with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented, good with measurements and technical specifications, and comfortable following established systems while helping customers solve practical vision problems.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $56,010 | $75,300 | $81,300 | 610 |
| Hawaii | $58,310 | $75,300 | $76,940 | 110 |
| New Jersey | $62,760 | $72,460 | $80,720 | 2,010 |
| Massachusetts | $54,290 | $67,210 | $79,670 | 1,360 |
| New York | $50,500 | $63,880 | $73,580 | 3,520 |
| District of Columbia | $48,040 | $61,310 | $65,680 | 80 |
| Florida | $45,400 | $58,850 | $66,960 | 5,080 |
| Alaska | $40,450 | $58,250 | $74,880 | 90 |
| California | $47,050 | $57,990 | $77,460 | 7,840 |
| Vermont | $46,550 | $57,350 | $68,080 | 70 |
| Virginia | $43,730 | $55,820 | $63,950 | 1,860 |
| New Hampshire | $46,710 | $51,980 | $59,370 | 440 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- National Opticianry Competency Certification (ABO-NCLE) — American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners
- Contact Lens Registry Certification (CLRE) — American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners
- American Board of Opticianry Advanced Certification (ABOC-AC) — American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners
- Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) — Commission on Paraoptometric Certification
- National Contact Lens Examiners Advanced Certification (NCLE-AC) — American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners
- Advanced Competency in Medical Optometry (ACMO) — National Board of Examiners in Optometry
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2081.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.