CE FAQs

On December 12, 2011, the Board of Regents approved regulations to implement mandatory continuing education requirements for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. The updated Education Law requires veterinary technicians to complete 24 hours of acceptable continuing education every three years. The requirement became effective in January 2012. To calculate the number of continuing education hours that you must complete before your next re-registration date, refer to the continuing education table for veterinary technicians at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed/vettechcetable.pdf.

A list of FAQs from the State Board can be found at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed/vetcefaqs.htm. NYSAVT has also complied several FAQs to help our members understand these requirements.

When does the law take effect?
CE became mandatory effective January 1, 2012 for all licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians in New York State.

Will Spring Seminar courses count?
All 2012 NYSAVT-sponsored courses, including courses presented at Spring Seminar count toward the mandatory CE requirement. Additionally, NYSAVT-sponsored courses taken in 2011 (including Spring Seminar) count toward the mandatory CE requirement.


Where can I get CE courses?
All NYSAVT-sponsored courses count toward the mandatory CE requirement. A list of NYS approved providers can be found at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed/vetceproviders.htm.

What is now required?
This bill requires veterinarians and veterinary technicians to complete continuing education during each three-year registration period and provides various exemptions. Vet techs must complete 24 hours of continuing education, 12 of which may be selfinstructed. Vet techs that do not complete mandatory CE will be unable to practice until they have met these requirements and have received a registration or conditional registration certificate.


Is there a proration?
Yes, but for the first three years, mandatory CE requirements may be confusing. Refer to the continuing education table for veterinary technicians found at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed/vettechcetable.pdf.

What if I don’t complete CE?
If you have not satisfied the mandatory CE requirement, you will not receive a triennial registration certificate. You will be unable to practice until a conditional registration certificate is issued or you have met the mandatory CE requirements.

Are there any exemptions?
Yes, there are a number of exemptions, including those for new licensees, full-time educators and non-practicing LVTs, among others. Find detailed information on exemptions at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed/vetcefaqs.htm.

How much will it cost?
A mandatory CE fee of $45 will be collected from licensees and must be payable on or before the first day of each triennial registration period. This must be paid in addition to the triennial registration fee.

 
Questions?
Visit www.nysavt.org for further details or call or email NYSAVT at 518-426-7920 or nysavt@gmail.com. You can also contact the Office of the Professions directly at 518-474-3817 x560 or online at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/vetmed.