What Is a Veterinary Technician
A veterinary technician is a licensed or certified professional who provides technical support to veterinarians in clinical settings. Vet techs perform diagnostic tests, administer medications, assist in surgery, and manage patient records. The role requires formal education and passing a credentialing exam. Most vet techs work in private veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or research facilities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies vet techs under veterinary technologists and technicians, with a median annual wage of approximately $37,000 as of May 2023. The job outlook for this occupation is projected to grow faster than average through 2032, driven by increased pet ownership and advanced veterinary care. For a detailed occupational outlook, see the BLS page on veterinary technologists and technicians BLS veterinary technologists and technicians outlook.
Vet techs differ from veterinary assistants in that they complete a structured postsecondary program and pass a licensing or certification exam. Assistants typically learn on the job and do not require the same level of formal credentialing. Vet techs can specialize in areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, emergency care, or zoological medicine. Many states require vet techs to pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination, or VTNE, which is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. The exam tests knowledge in pharmacology, surgical preparation, and diagnostic imaging. Completing an American Veterinary Medical Association, or AVMA, accredited program is a key step for eligibility. The AVMA maintains a list of accredited vet tech programs on its website AVMA veterinary technology education.
Vet Tech Education and Certification Paths
Most veterinary technician programs award an associate degree and take about two years to complete. Some schools offer a four-year bachelor's degree in veterinary technology, which can qualify graduates for advanced roles. Coursework includes animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, clinical pathology, and nursing care. Students also complete supervised clinical rotations in veterinary hospitals or clinics. The AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities, or CVTEA, accredits programs in the United States and Canada. Graduating from an accredited program is required to sit for the VTNE in most jurisdictions. As of 2024, there are over 200 AVMA-accredited vet tech programs across the country.
After completing an accredited program, candidates must pass the VTNE and apply for state licensure or certification. The VTNE is a computer-based exam with 170 questions, and candidates have three hours to complete it. Passing scores are set by individual state boards, but the national average pass rate is around 65 to 70 percent. Some states also require a state-specific exam or jurisprudence test. Continuing education is mandatory to maintain certification, with most states requiring 10 to 20 hours per renewal cycle. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America, or NAVTA, provides resources and pathways for specialization and professional development NAVTA veterinary technician resources.
Vet Tech Salary, Job Duties, and Career Outlook
The median annual salary for veterinary technologists and technicians was approximately $37,000 in May 2023, according to the BLS. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,000, while the top 10 percent earned more than $48,000. Salary varies by experience, specialty, and work setting. Vet techs in research facilities or specialty hospitals often earn higher wages than those in general practice. The top-paying states for this occupation include Connecticut, Nevada, and California. The BLS