Servicemembers and military spouses have two pathways to becoming a licensed optometrist in the state of North Carolina:
Permanent licensure for servicemembers, military spouses, and veterans (G.S. 93B-15.1); or
Licensure under federal portability for servicemembers and military spouses relocating due to military orders (50 U.S.C. § 4025a)
Applicants who receive licensure pursuant to 50 U.S.C. § 4025a are eligible to practice in North Carolina with full state scope of practice, provided they maintain their out-of-state license in good standing. Applicants who receive a permanent license pursuant to G.S. 93B-15.1 remain eligible to practice and renew that license even if they are no longer in North Carolina pursuant to military orders.
Eligibility:
Active Duty Personnel
Active Duty Spouse
Veterans
Send DD214 prior to application submission
Application Process: Requires specific documentation, including:
Proof of military status
Marriage License (for spouses only)
Educational credentials
NBEO examination scores, including ISE passing score (except as noted below)
Verification of other state licenses
Three letters of recommendation
Fees: None
Two ways to become licensed under this statute:
G.S. 93B-15.1(a): Determination of whether the military applicant has completed testing or equivalent training and experience and has practiced at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds requirements for licensure in North Carolina. If yes, the license will be issued. (ISE score not required)
If the determination under paragraph 1 is negative, the applicant must successfully undergo a Clinical Competency Interview (~1 hour). G.S. 93B-15.1(a2)(2)
Scope of Practice: Licensure to North Carolina scope of practice
Renewal: Follows the standard annual renewal cycle of the Board
Continuity: Remains licensed at the end of the military orders
Eligibility:
Active duty servicemembers or spouses of active duty servicemembers who possess a “covered license” [as defined by 50 U.S.C. § 4025a(a)] and who relocate to North Carolina for military service due to military orders.
Application Process: Requires:
Copy of military orders
Marriage License (for spouses only)
Evidence of good standing with the licensing authority that issued the covered license and with any other authority that issued a license at a similar scope of practice
Notarized affidavit attesting to the items listed in 50 USC§ 4025a(c)(3), which include that the applicant has read and understands the Board’s requirements to receive a license and the scope of practice, that the applicant is in good standing in all States in which the applicant holds or has held a license, and that all statements made in the application are true, correct, and complete.
The Board reserves the right to require a background check as part of the application process, in accordance with 50 U.S.C. § 4025a(d)
Fees: None
Exam Type: None
License Type:
The license issued under this provision grants full North Carolina scope of practice and is equivalent to a standard license issued by the Board.
The license remains valid only while the covered license is maintained in good standing.
By accepting a license under 50 U.S.C. § 4025a, the servicemember or spouse submits to the authority of the Board, including standards of practice, discipline, and continuing education requirements.
Renewal: Follows the standard annual renewal cycle of the NCSBEO. Continued licensure requires verification that the covered license remains in good standing.
Continuity: The license remains valid as long as the out-of-state license is maintained. The license is no longer tied solely to the duration of military orders.
Scope of Practice:
Both pathways result in licensure with full North Carolina scope of practice. Licensure under G.S. 93B-15.1 is permanent and unrestricted. Licensure under 50 U.S.C. § 4025a remains valid only while the original license remains in good standing.
Urgency and Flexibility:
The 50 U.S.C. § 4025a pathway may be quicker and more flexible for those recently relocated and needing to practice immediately.
Long-Term Career Plans:
If North Carolina is a servicemember's or spouse's intended long-term home, permanent licensure under G.S. 93B-15.1 may offer greater long-term benefit and flexibility.
To apply, request a military application via email to Samantha at Samantha@ncoptometry.org.
Direct any questions to Samantha at Samantha@ncoptometry.org.