The Health Services Division, Total Army Personnel Command, working closely with the Optometry Consultant to The Surgeon General, makes all assignments. If you are attending or plan to attend an accredited school or college of optometry, you may be able to qualify. See you Army Health Care Recruiter for details. Entry grade is determined by educational degree, work experience subsequent to receipt of the qualifying degree, and prior active commissioned service, if applicable. Generally, candidates are assessed in the grade of Captain.
Salaries depend on both military rank and length of service.
All optometrists receive additional optometry officer pay. The minimum term of service for direct appointment, including the Officer Basic Course, is 36 months beginning with entry on active duty. ROTC or HPSP scholarship students may incur a longer active duty service obligation. A generous retirement program is available after twenty years of active service. Additionally, retirees and eligible family members, continue their health services, Post Exchange and commissary benefits.