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NYSAVT.org Frequently Asked Questions

Does New York State require licensure to work as a Vet Tech?
How do I become licensed in NY?
I worked in another state as a vet tech that didn't require licensure. Can I work in NY as a veterinary technician?
I have a AAS or BA degree, but did not major in Veterinary Technology. Can I sit for the licensing exam in NY?
I have worked in a veterinary hospital as a technician for many years but I do not have a degree. Can I still get licensed under the grandfather law?
I have a complaint about the way my veterinarian is practicing medicine, or utilizing unlicensed staff with my pet. Where can I make a formal complaint?
Where can I get information about obtaining my License?
Is continuing education required for renewal of my license?
Can you provide me with the names of accredited schools that offer the Veterinary Technology program?
I have recently moved. Who do I need to contact (besides NYSAVT:)?
I took my licensing exam outside of New York. Can I still be licensed in New York?
I am a licensed veterinary technician in another state. Do I have to take another exam to be licensed in New York?





Does New York State require licensure to work as a Vet Tech?

Yes, visit http://www.op.nysed.gov/vtlic.htm  for Licensure Requirements.


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How do I become licensed in NY?

You must have graduated from an AVMA accredited college with a degree in Veterinary Technology in order to qualify to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam.  You must pass this exam to become licensed.  It is offered twice a year.  You can contact the State Education Department for more details regarding when and where the exam will be offered and if
you qualify to take the exam. Visit
http://www.op.nysed.gov/vtlic.htm for Licensure Requirements.


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I worked in another state as a vet tech that didn't require licensure. Can I work in NY as a veterinary technician?
No, you must have a license to work as a vet tech in NY. 

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I have a AAS or BA degree, but did not major in Veterinary Technology. Can I sit for the licensing exam in NY?
No, you must have graduated from an AVMA Veterinary Technology Program
to take the exam.


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I have worked in a veterinary hospital as a technician for many years but I do not have a degree. Can I still get licensed under the grandfather law?
No, the grandfather law loop hole was closed years ago.  This law was
meant to give non-degree technicians an opportunity to get licensed 25
years ago when licensure was first required.  It was never meant to be an
option as an alternative to getting your degree.  It is illegal to work as
a veterinary technician in NY without a license
.


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I have a complaint about the way my veterinarian is practicing medicine, or utilizing unlicensed staff with my pet. Where can I make a formal complaint?
To report suspected cases of professional misconduct or unlicensed
practice of the professions you can call 1-800-442-8106, or e-mail
conduct@mail.nysed.gov   You can also use the web to verify licenses and
search for disciplinary actions taken against licensees at
http://www.op.nysed.gov/proflist.htm

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Where can I get information about obtaining my License?

For licensure information, contact the New York State Board for Veterinary Technology Office of Professions, 518-474-3817 or Visit http://www.op.nysed.gov/vtlic.htm for Licensure Requirements. 
 


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Is continuing education required for renewal of my license?
 No, CE by law is not mandated. Once you recieve your license through the New York State Board, you are licensed for life.
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Can you provide me with the names of accredited schools that offer the Veterinary Technology program?

See Educational  Opportunities


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I have recently moved. Who do I need to contact (besides NYSAVT:)?

You are required to notify the State Board within 30 days of any name or address changes. Contact change forms may be downloaded from the State Board’s website at www.op.nysed.gov/anchange.pdf


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I took my licensing exam outside of New York. Can I still be licensed in New York?

Yes. You will need to have your test scores transferred to New York. Visit http://www.aavsb.org  for more information.


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I am a licensed veterinary technician in another state. Do I have to take another exam to be licensed in New York?

No. The NYS Education Department may endorse a veterinary technician license issued by another state if the Department determines you have met New York’s education requirements, have passed a comparable licensing examination and have:

met all general veterinary technician application requirements;

been licensed in another jurisdiction of the United States and practiced lawfully for at least 2 years (full-time) following initial licensure; and

not failed a licensing examination used by the New York State either prior to or after making application for licensure by endorsement, unless you have later passed a comparable licensing examination.


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