What is required for licensure by endorsement in California?

To obtain licensure by endorsement in California, one must have practiced actively in good standing for a minimum of 5000 hours. This requirement ensures that the candidate has substantial hands-on experience and meets the state’s standards for providing optometric care. By emphasizing practical experience, California aims to ensure that licensed optometrists are not only knowledgeable but also possess the skills necessary to deliver quality care to their patients.

It is important to note that requirements such as passing the California state board exam or completing a residency program, while valuable components of optometric training and assessment, do not specifically relate to the endorsement process. Similarly, the practice requirement of 3000 hours would not satisfy California’s criteria for licensure by endorsement, as the state specifically mandates 5000 hours of active practice.