Before committing to this career path, it\u2019s essential to understand what a veterinary technician does. Vet techs perform various tasks, including:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Conducting lab tests and analyzing results<\/li>\n
- Assisting in surgeries and medical procedures<\/li>\n
- Administering medications and vaccinations<\/li>\n
- Handling and restraining animals for examinations<\/li>\n
- Educating pet owners on animal care<\/li>\n
- Maintaining medical records<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While veterinary technicians work closely with animals, the job can also be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring patience, compassion, and resilience.<\/p>\n
2. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED<\/strong><\/h3>\n
A high school diploma or GED is the first educational requirement for becoming a veterinary technician. High school students interested in this career should focus on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy. Volunteering or working at an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or farm can also provide valuable experience.<\/p>\n
3. Enroll in an Accredited Veterinary Technician Program<\/strong><\/h3>\n
To become a licensed veterinary technician, you must complete a Veterinary Technician Associate Degree from an accredited program. These programs are typically two years long and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training.<\/p>\n
Accredited programs are approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)<\/strong> through its Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA<\/a><\/span>)<\/strong>. You can find accredited programs at community colleges, technical schools, and universities.<\/p>\n
Coursework typically includes:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Animal anatomy and physiology<\/li>\n
- Pharmacology and anesthesia<\/li>\n
- Veterinary ethics and law<\/li>\n
- Radiology and imaging<\/li>\n
- Clinical pathology and microbiology<\/li>\n
- Surgical nursing and emergency care<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
4. Complete Clinical Externships<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Most veterinary technician programs require students to complete hands-on training through clinical externships or internships at veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or research facilities. This provides real-world experience and an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting.<\/p>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\")
5. Pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)<\/strong><\/h3>\nAfter completing an accredited program, aspiring vet techs must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)<\/strong>. The VTNE is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB<\/a><\/span>)<\/strong> and evaluates a candidate\u2019s competency in veterinary technology.<\/p>\n
The exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Pharmacy and pharmacology<\/li>\n
- Surgical preparation and assisting<\/li>\n
- Laboratory procedures<\/li>\n
- Animal nursing<\/li>\n
- Diagnostic imaging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Passing the VTNE is required to obtain licensure or certification in most states.<\/p>\n
6. Obtain State Licensure or Certification<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Each state has different requirements for licensing or certifying veterinary technicians. Most states require:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Graduation from an AVMA-accredited program<\/li>\n
- A passing score on the VTNE<\/li>\n
- Completion of a state-specific exam (in some states)<\/li>\n
- Background checks or additional documentation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Titles for licensed veterinary technicians vary by state and may include Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)<\/strong>, Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)<\/strong>, or Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)<\/strong>. It\u2019s essential to check with your state\u2019s veterinary board for specific requirements.<\/p>\n
\u201cVeterinary technicians are the link between animals and veterinarians. They are the ones who make sure that animals receive the best possible care.\u201d
\u2014 Dr. Marty Becker, DVM<\/a><\/span>, renowned veterinarian and author.<\/p>\n![\"How](\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Hedgehog.png\")
7. Gain Employment as a Veterinary Technician<\/strong><\/h3>\nOnce licensed, you can begin working in a variety of settings, including:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Private veterinary clinics<\/li>\n
- Animal hospitals<\/li>\n
- Emergency veterinary facilities<\/li>\n
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations<\/li>\n
- Research laboratories<\/li>\n
- Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When searching for a job, consider networking with professionals, attending veterinary conferences, and utilizing job search websites specializing in veterinary careers. You can also pickup side jobs in various pet care services which are needed by pet parents such as an in home pet sitter<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n
8. Continue Education and Specialization<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Veterinary technicians must stay updated on the latest advancements in animal care. Many states require continuing education (CE) credits for license renewal.<\/p>\n
Vet techs can also specialize in areas such as:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Emergency and Critical Care (VTS-ECC)<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Anesthesia and Analgesia (VTS-AA)<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Dentistry (VTS-Dentistry)<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Zoological Medicine (VTS-ZM)<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Equine Veterinary Nursing (VTS-EVN)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Specialization can lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities.<\/p>\n
9. Consider Advancing Your Career<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Vet techs who want to further their careers can pursue additional education, such as:<\/p>\n
- \n
- A Bachelor\u2019s degree in Veterinary Technology<\/strong><\/li>\n
- A Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) certification<\/strong><\/li>\n
- A transition into veterinary school to become a veterinarian<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png\")
<\/p>\nAre you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and we’ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!<\/span><\/p>\n
Becoming a veterinary technician requires dedication, education, and hands-on experience. By following these steps…completing an accredited program, passing the VTNE, and obtaining licensure…you can start a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine. With opportunities for specialization and career growth, becoming a vet tech is an excellent choice for those passionate about animal care.<\/p>\n\n
- A Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) certification<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Anesthesia and Analgesia (VTS-AA)<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Emergency and Critical Care (VTS-ECC)<\/strong><\/li>\n