Eyeglass repair bench or small shop

Walk-in customers with broken or loose glasses, optical shops that outsource repairs, and local eye doctors who want a repair partner.

Fees per repair and adjustment, plus profit on replacement parts, lens orders and accessories such as cases and cleaning kits. Wholesale repair work for nearby optical shops adds steadier income.

• Fine hand skills and use of optical tools
• Knowledge of frame materials and lens types
• Customer service and clear pricing

• Many states license dispensing opticians; check with your state's licensing board whether lens fitting and frame adjusting need a license
• General liability insurance, and a business license and sales tax registration (check your city, county and state)
• Repairs can fail or damage old frames, so set expectations and keep written terms
• Rent and lease terms for a shop or kiosk before you commit

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on whether you rent a bench, a kiosk or a small storefront, and on your tools and insurance. Check lease terms before you commit.

Many states license dispensing opticians, so check with your state's licensing board whether lens fitting and frame adjusting need a license. Also check general liability insurance, business license and sales tax registration with your city, county and state.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on location and customer volume. Plan on at least about 25 hours a week. These are estimates, and repairs can fail, so set written terms.