To get your veterinary technician certification you need to complete a 2-year program and then pass the National Veterinary Technician (NTV) exam. The exam focuses on evaluating your ability to work in the field as a veterinary technician. In most states, a minimum passing score is needed to get a vet tech license.
Education Required for Certification
Today, veterinary technician online agencies exist to help individuals take the test and get certified in their areas of residence. But first you have to complete a program. Required courses include:
- veterinary technology, anesthesia
- animal medical techniques
- biology, microbiology and chemistry
- humanities courses
- hematology, radiography, surgical principles
- comparative anatomy and physiology
After completing the 2-year veterinary technician certification program, many students go on to get a 4-year degree in veterinary science. Young people are encouraged to start early with high school courses that focus on science, biology, math and practical lab skills.
Preparing for the Exam
There are over 130 veterinary technician certification programs accredited in the U.S. After completing courses, students can take the NVT exam in any state. The test includes oral, written and practical skills questions.
Some Internet sites like the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) offer a host of helpful resources including practice tests and study guides, application instructions and other information related to getting credentialed.