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Veterinary Technician

National Exam

Most state and provincial agencies use the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE®) to evaluate the competency of entry-level veterinary technicians and require a passing score for a veterinary technician to be credentialed. (Regulated and Non-Regulated Jurisdiction Reference List)

The VTNE is administered during three exam windows each year. The exam is computer-based and is given at PSI testing centers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

The AAVSB owns and administers the VTNE, but we do not credential veterinary technicians. For specific credential information, contact your state or provincial agency.

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An AAVSB representative specialized in your question will get back to you

Follow these steps to complete the VTNE
Verify your VTNE Eligibility

Find out if you meet the eligibility requirements to take the VTNE.

Step 1
The Online Application

What are the exam dates? How do I apply? Access Candidate Handbook and Transcript Requirements.

Step 2
Application Status

Learn how to check your application status.

Step 3
Schedule Your Exam

Select your date, time, and location after your eligibility is approved.

Step 4
Study for the VTNE

How can I prepare for the exam?

Step 5
Withdraw Application

Cancelling, refunds, and emergencies.

Step 6
Score Report

Exam Day information and official score reports for you and for your credentialing agency.

Step 7
Retake the VTNE

Steps for retaking the exam and checking your eligibility.

Step 8
Your Credential

When will I get my license, certification, or registration?

Step 9
News & Updates
Posted 5/3/2021
The AAVSB Launches Veterinary Care Elite™

Veterinary Care Elite validates and recognizes the regulated veterinary technicians who have met the profession's highest standards as set by the AAVSB's Member Boards. The AAVSB will do that by verifying their education, regulation credentials, and professional conduct, affirming its belief that a robust and efficient regulatory process will support and advance the veterinary profession.

Posted 5/26/2021
The AAVSB Announces Winner of 2021 VTNE Celebrating Diversity Award

The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) is pleased to announce the winner of the inaugural Veterinary Technician National Examination Celebrating Diversity Award is Tiana Smith, a graduating Veterinary Technology senior from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Posted 6/2/2021
For VTNE Applicants regarding Transcript Processing

Attention VTNE Applicants: Please allow staff through at least June 30 to process all applications and transcripts. If your school has sent your transcript, the AAVSB will work with you on eligibility. We are receiving an extremely high volume of transcripts and applications. We appreciate your patience.

Posted 2/4/2021
AAVSB Creates VTNE Celebrating Diversity Award

The AAVSB is thrilled to introduce this award which is to be given to a veterinary technician or nursing student from an AVMA-CVTEA or CVMA accredited veterinary technology or nursing program. This award will be presented to a minority student who has been traditionally underrepresented in the veterinary technician profession.