Contents
Find out how to get your vet tech certification so that you can begin your career in the veterinary field.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
As a veterinary technician, you will have the opportunity to work closely with animals and help provide them with the care they need. In order to become a veterinary technician, you will need to complete a accredited veterinary technology program and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Once you have passed the VTNE, you will be able to apply for certification in your state.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is a not-for-profit association representing more than 91,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. The AVMA membership supports and promotes the professional activities of veterinarians to protect public health, advance animal health and welfare, enhance the doctor-patient-client relationship, ensure the appropriate supply of safe food of animal origin, and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) is a professional organization that provides certification for veterinary technicians. In order to become certified, veterinary technicians must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). The VTNE is a standardized examination that covers all aspects of veterinary medicine. After passing the VTNE, veterinary technicians are eligible to apply for state licensure.
Educational requirements
To become a certified veterinary technician, you must first complete an accredited two-year veterinary technology program. There are many such programs across the United States, and each has slightly different requirements. In general, you’ll need to take classes in various aspects of animal care, including anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and disease prevention and treatment. You’ll also likely be required to complete a hands-on internship at a veterinary clinic or animal hospital.
Once you’ve completed your veterinary technology program, you’ll need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). The VTNE is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of veterinary medicine. After passing the VTNE, you’ll be eligible to apply for certification in your state. Each state has its own certification process, so be sure to check with your state’s regulatory board for specific requirements.
Clinical requirements
After you have completed your academic requirements, you will need to gain clinical experience in order to be eligible for certification. There are a few ways to do this:
-You can complete a veterinary technician program that includes a clinical externship. This is the most common route and will ensure that you are well-prepared for the certification exam.
-You can work as a veterinary assistant or technician in a clinic or hospital and complete on-the-job training. Many employers offer this type of training, but it is important to make sure that you are receiving adequate instruction and have the opportunity to perform all of the duties of a certified veterinary technician.
-You can also volunteer at an animal shelter or rescue organization. This is a great way to gain experience, but it is important to make sure that you are working under the supervision of a licensed veterinary technician or veterinarian.
Once you have met the clinical experience requirements, you will be eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). This is a standardized exam that is used to assess your knowledge and skills as a veterinary technician. Once you pass the VTNE, you will be certified and can begin working as a veterinary technician!
Exams
There are two exams you need to pass to get your vet tech certification. The first is the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), and the second is a state exam. Both exams are multiple choice and cover a wide range of topics related to veterinary medicine.
You can take the VTNE as many times as you need to pass, but you must wait 45 days between each attempt. The state exam may have different requirements, so be sure to check with your state’s veterinary board. Once you pass both exams, you will be a certified veterinary technician.
Certification
The process of becoming a certified veterinary technician (CVT) is outlined by the national organization, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). In order to become credentialed, you must graduate from an accredited veterinary technology program and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
After you have completed these steps, you will be credentialed by your state’s veterinary board and be able to use the title “certified veterinary technician” or “veterinary technologist”. You will also be required to complete continuing education throughout your career in order to maintain your certification.
Renewal
Vet techs may renew their certification by either taking the VTNE again or completing continuing education (CE) requirements. The AVMA offers a variety of CE courses, many of which are free for members. To find a list of upcoming CE courses, visit the AVMA website.
