Programs Near You
Select a program of interest and we’ll connect you with trade schools that match your goals.
How to Become a Veterinary Technician
Quick answer: how to become a Veterinary Technician
Complete an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program (2 years for associate degree), pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), obtain state licensure or certification, and apply for positions in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or specialty practices. Most veterinary technicians can start working within 2-3 years of beginning their education.
What does a Veterinary Technician do?
Veterinary technicians (also called vet techs, LVTs, RVTs, or CVTs depending on state) are skilled animal healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of veterinarians. They perform many of the same clinical tasks that nurses perform in human medicine, including diagnostic testing, medication administration, and surgical assistance.
Primary Responsibilities
Clinical Procedures:
- Collect blood, urine, and tissue samples
- Perform laboratory tests and analyze results
- Take and develop X-rays and radiographs
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments
- Place IV catheters and monitor fluid therapy
- Perform dental cleanings and extractions
Surgical Support:
- Prepare animals for surgery
- Administer and monitor anesthesia
- Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures
- Monitor vital signs throughout procedures
- Provide post-operative care and monitoring
- Maintain sterile surgical environments
Patient Care:
- Perform physical assessments and record vital signs
- Provide nursing care for hospitalized animals
- Administer emergency and critical care
- Manage pain and provide comfort measures
- Monitor animals recovering from illness or surgery
- Communicate with veterinarians about patient status
Client Education:
- Explain diagnoses and treatment plans to pet owners
- Provide medication and home care instructions
- Educate clients on nutrition and preventive care
- Discuss vaccination schedules and wellness plans
- Address client concerns and questions
- Demonstrate at-home care techniques
Work Environment
Veterinary technicians work in various settings:
- Private veterinary practices
- Animal hospitals (general and emergency)
- Veterinary specialty clinics
- Veterinary teaching hospitals
- Research laboratories
- Zoos and wildlife facilities
- Humane societies and animal shelters
- Pharmaceutical and biotech companies
Licensing and Credentialing for Veterinary Technicians
State credential types
States use different titles for credentialed veterinary technicians:
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT):
- Used in approximately 15 states
- Requires VTNE passage and state application
Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT):
- Used in California and other states
- Similar requirements to LVT
Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT):
- Used in remaining states
- Requires VTNE and state certification
Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE)
Administering Organization: AAVSB (American Association of Veterinary State Boards)
Eligibility Requirements:
- Graduate of AVMA-accredited program, OR
- Meet state-specific alternative pathway requirements
Exam Details:
- 170 multiple-choice questions (150 scored)
- 3-hour time limit
- Computer-based testing at Prometric centers
- Covers pharmacy, surgical nursing, dentistry, lab procedures, anesthesia, emergency care, pain management, and more
- $345 exam fee
Pass Rate: Approximately 72-75% on first attempt
Renewal: Continuing education required (varies by state)
Veterinary Technician Specialties (VTS)
After becoming credentialed, technicians can pursue specialty certification:
| Specialty | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Emergency and Critical Care | Trauma, intensive care |
| Anesthesia and Analgesia | Sedation, pain management |
| Internal Medicine | Complex medical cases |
| Dental | Oral health procedures |
| Oncology | Cancer treatment support |
| Behavior | Animal behavior modification |
| Zoological Medicine | Exotic and wildlife species |
| Surgical | Advanced surgical assistance |
| Cardiology | Heart conditions |
| Ophthalmology | Eye conditions |
Step-by-step path to becoming a Veterinary Technician
Step 1: meet basic requirements
Education: High school diploma or GED required
Recommended Preparation:
- Biology and chemistry courses
- Math and algebra
- English and communication
- Computer skills
- Animal science if available
Personal Qualities:
- Love of animals and science
- Manual dexterity
- Attention to detail
- Ability to handle stress
- Strong communication skills
- Physical stamina
Step 2: complete an AVMA-accredited program
Associate Degree (2 years)
- Most common educational pathway
- AVMA accreditation required for VTNE eligibility
- Includes classroom and clinical instruction
- Approximately 240 accredited programs nationwide
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
- Available at some universities
- More comprehensive education
- Better foundation for advancement
- May include research opportunities
Distance Learning Programs
- Online theory courses with local clinical practice
- Good for working adults
- Must complete hands-on requirements locally
- AVMA-accredited programs available
Core Curriculum:
- Veterinary anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology and anesthesiology
- Clinical laboratory procedures
- Radiology and diagnostic imaging
- Surgical nursing and assisting
- Dental procedures
- Animal nursing and nutrition
- Veterinary office management
- Ethics and jurisprudence
Step 3: complete clinical experience
Programs require supervised clinical hours:
- In-program clinical rotations
- Externships at veterinary facilities
- Emergency and specialty practice exposure
- Large animal experience (if program includes)
Step 4: Pass the VTNE
After graduation:
- Apply through AAVSB website
- Receive authorization to test
- Schedule exam at Prometric testing center
- Pass examination (scaled score of 425+)
- Receive score report
Step 5: obtain state credential
Requirements vary by state:
- Submit application to state veterinary board
- Provide proof of VTNE passage
- Complete background check
- Pay licensing/certification fees
- Receive state credential (LVT, RVT, or CVT)
Step 6: begin your career
Entry-Level Positions:
- General practice veterinary technician
- Emergency and critical care technician
- Animal hospital technician
- Shelter veterinary technician
Common First Employers:
- Private veterinary practices
- Animal hospitals
- Emergency veterinary clinics
- Teaching hospitals
- Humane societies
Training programs and education options
Program types comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | $10,000-$25,000 | Standard pathway |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | $30,000-$80,000 | Advanced roles |
| Distance Learning | 2-3 years | $15,000-$30,000 | Working adults |
What to look for in a program
AVMA Accreditation: Required for VTNE eligibility
VTNE Pass Rates: Programs report first-time pass rates
Clinical Hours: Sufficient hands-on training
Specialty Exposure: Emergency, surgery, large animal
Job Placement: Career services and employer connections
AVMA accreditation requirements
AVMA-accredited programs must provide:
- Qualified faculty with veterinary credentials
- Adequate facilities and equipment
- Comprehensive curriculum coverage
- Supervised clinical experience
- Appropriate student-to-instructor ratios
Cost breakdown: Veterinary Technician education
Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Community College | $8,000-$15,000 | $400-$800 |
| Private College | $20,000-$40,000 | $600-$1,200 |
| Distance Learning | $15,000-$30,000 | $500-$1,000 |
| University (Bachelor’s) | $30,000-$80,000 | $1,000-$2,000 |
Additional Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Textbooks and supplies | $500-$1,000 |
| Scrubs and uniforms | $100-$200 |
| Stethoscope | $50-$150 |
| VTNE exam fee | $345 |
| State licensing fee | $50-$200 |
| Background check | $30-$75 |
| Rabies pre-exposure vaccine | $300-$500 (optional) |
Financial aid options
- Federal Financial Aid: Pell Grants, student loans (FAFSA)
- State Grants: State-specific funding programs
- Veterinary Scholarships: NAVTA, breed associations, industry sponsors
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Some veterinary practices offer support
- Veterans Benefits: GI Bill covers approved programs
Veterinary Technician salary and job outlook
National salary data
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-1 year) | $32,000-$38,000 |
| Early Career (1-3 years) | $38,000-$44,000 |
| Mid-Career (4-7 years) | $44,000-$52,000 |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $52,000-$62,000 |
Salary by Work Setting
| Setting | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Research Laboratories | $48,000-$58,000 |
| Veterinary Teaching Hospitals | $46,000-$55,000 |
| Specialty Practices | $45,000-$55,000 |
| Emergency/Critical Care | $44,000-$54,000 |
| Private Veterinary Practices | $40,000-$48,000 |
Job Outlook
- Current Employment: 120,800 veterinary technologists and technicians nationwide
- Projected Growth (2022-2032): 20% (much faster than average)
- Annual Job Openings: 14,900 positions
- Growth Factors: Increased pet ownership, advanced veterinary treatments, aging pet population, expanded specialty services
Salary by State
Career advancement opportunities
Specialty Certification (VTS)
Veterinary Technician Specialists earn higher salaries and work in advanced roles:
Requirements:
- Credentialed veterinary technician
- 3+ years of experience (with 6,000+ hours in specialty)
- Case logs and documentation
- Pass specialty examination
- Continuing education maintenance
Popular Specialties:
- Emergency and Critical Care (VTS-ECC)
- Anesthesia and Analgesia (VTS-Anesthesia)
- Internal Medicine (VTS-Internal Medicine)
- Dental (VTS-Dentistry)
- Behavior (VTS-Behavior)
Management and Leadership Roles
| Role | Requirements | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Veterinary Technician | 3-5 years experience | $45,000-$55,000 |
| Veterinary Practice Manager | Experience + business training | $50,000-$70,000 |
| Hospital Administrator | Bachelor’s preferred | $55,000-$80,000 |
| Regional Manager | Multiple years + MBA helpful | $70,000-$100,000 |
Alternative career paths
| Role | Additional Requirements | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician Specialist | VTS credential | $50,000-$70,000 |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Rep | Sales training | $60,000-$100,000 |
| Veterinary Equipment Specialist | Technical training | $50,000-$70,000 |
| Teaching/Education | Experience + credentials | $45,000-$65,000 |
Advanced education options
- Bachelor’s Degree: Veterinary technology, animal science
- Master’s Degree: Veterinary science, education
- Veterinary School: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Pros and challenges of this career
Benefits
- Exceptional job growth (20% - much faster than average)
- Work directly with animals providing medical care
- Shorter education than veterinarians (2 years vs. 8+)
- Multiple work settings and specialties available
- Advancing technology creates new opportunities
- Rewarding work helping animals heal
- Strong demand nationwide
- Path to specialty certification and advancement
Challenges
- Moderate pay compared to education investment
- Physically demanding work (lifting, standing)
- Emotionally challenging situations (euthanasia, animal suffering)
- Risk of bites, scratches, and zoonotic diseases
- Shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays
- High burnout rates in the profession
- Student debt relative to salary
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a veterinary technician?
Most veterinary technician programs take 2 years to complete (associate degree). Add time for VTNE preparation and state licensing. Bachelor’s degree programs take 4 years. Including licensing, expect 2-3 years from start to working as a credentialed vet tech.
How much does veterinary technician school cost?
Associate degree programs typically cost $10,000-$25,000 at community colleges and $20,000-$40,000 at private schools. Bachelor’s programs range from $30,000-$80,000. Distance learning programs cost $15,000-$30,000.
Is veterinary technician a good career choice?
Veterinary technician offers excellent job growth (20% - much faster than average) with 14,900 annual openings. While salary ($41,240 median) is moderate relative to education, the career provides meaningful work with animals and multiple advancement opportunities.
Do veterinary technicians need to be licensed?
Most states require veterinary technicians to be credentialed (licensed, registered, or certified) to use the title and perform certain procedures. This requires graduating from an AVMA-accredited program and passing the VTNE.
What is the difference between a veterinary technician and veterinary assistant?
Veterinary technicians have more education (associate degree), pass a national exam (VTNE), and are credentialed by the state. They can perform clinical tasks like drawing blood, placing catheters, and monitoring anesthesia. Veterinary assistants have less training and work under more supervision.
Can veterinary technicians perform surgery?
No, veterinary technicians cannot perform surgery - only veterinarians can. However, vet techs play crucial roles in surgical preparation, anesthesia monitoring, and post-operative care. Some specialty-trained techs assist during complex procedures.
Where do veterinary technicians earn the most?
Veterinary technicians in research laboratories, specialty practices, and teaching hospitals typically earn the highest salaries. Geographic location also matters, with Connecticut, California, and Massachusetts offering top wages.
How much do veterinary technicians make per hour?
Based on national averages, veterinary technicians earn approximately $19-$22 per hour at the median level. Entry-level positions start around $15-$18 per hour, while experienced specialists can earn $25-$30 per hour.
Is the VTNE difficult to pass?
The VTNE has approximately a 72-75% first-time pass rate. Success requires comprehensive preparation covering all exam domains. Many graduates take review courses and practice exams before testing. Failed attempts can be retried after a waiting period.
Can I become a veterinary technician online?
You can complete the didactic (classroom) portion of an AVMA-accredited program online, but you must complete hands-on clinical training in person. Distance learning programs partner with local veterinary facilities for clinical experience.
What is the job outlook for veterinary technicians?
The BLS projects 20% growth for veterinary technicians through 2032, with 14,900 annual job openings. This is much faster than average for all occupations, driven by increasing pet ownership and advancing veterinary medicine.
How do I become a veterinary technician specialist (VTS)?
After becoming credentialed and gaining 3+ years of experience in your specialty area (with 6,000+ hours), complete case logs, obtain mentor supervision, and pass the specialty examination. There are 16 recognized VTS specialties.
How to get started today
Ready to begin your veterinary technician career? Follow these steps:
- Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find AVMA-accredited veterinary technician programs in your area
- Verify Accreditation: Confirm AVMA accreditation for VTNE eligibility
- Check VTNE Pass Rates: Compare program outcomes
- Plan Financially: Explore financial aid and scholarship options
- Apply and Enroll: Start your veterinary technology education
Additional Resources
Licensing and Credentialing
- AAVSB: aavsb.org – VTNE information and state licensing requirements
- State Veterinary Boards: Licensing requirements by state
Professional Organizations
- NAVTA: navta.net – National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America
- AVMA: avma.org – American Veterinary Medical Association
Educational Resources
- AVMA-CVTEA: avma.org/education – Accredited program listings
- VTNE Preparation: Review courses and practice exams available
Specialty Certification
- NAVTA VTS: Information on Veterinary Technician Specialist credentials
- Academy of Veterinary Technicians: Specialty academy information
Career Development
- Continuing Education: Required for credential maintenance
- VetTechLife: Career resources and community
- Specialty Academies: Training for VTS certification