Welcome Home Act

In accordance with Act 253 of the 2024 Louisiana Legislative Session, the Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners will now offer licensure by endorsement to applicants currently licensed in another state. Licensure by endorsement in Louisiana allows applicants who hold a current and valid optometry license in another state to expand their career opportunities within Louisiana. Whether you’re moving to Louisiana or already residing here, this process recognizes your qualifications and facilitates professional growth. To qualify for licensure by endorsement, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The applicant lives in Louisiana and can provide proof of residency.
• The applicant holds a current and valid license in another state with a similar scope of practice.
• The applicant has held the license for at least one year.
• The state where the applicant currently holds a license mandates passing an examination or meeting education, training, or experience standards.
• The applicant is in “good standing” in the previous state of licensure.
• The applicant adheres to the LSBOE's background check procedures.
• The applicant must pass the jurisprudence section of the Louisiana Optometry exam.
• If the applicant has no pending disciplinary action or investigation in another state, the LSBOE may proceed with issuing a license or certification. However, if there is a pending disciplinary action or investigation, the LSBOE will delay its decision until the issue is resolved or the applicant meets all criteria for the license or certification to the LSBOE's satisfaction.

To indicate your intention to apply for licensure via the Welcome Home Act, please include that information in your application email to lsboe@yahoo.com. If you are mailing in your application, an email to lsboe@yahoo.com is still needed, along with proof of residency.