Your Questions - Answered.

Application for the VTNE

When is the VTNE given?
Each year, the VTNE is given in three windows which are about a month long.  Applications to take the VTNE are accepted all the time.  However, there are deadlines for each examination window. 

Definitions
Examinations Windows = the dates when you can schedule a time to take the VTNE

Application and Document Deadlines = these are the last days to apply for the exam and to have required documents to AAVSB.

State/Provincial Deadlines = each state and province has different deadlines for their own applications and exams.  Check with your state or province for their deadlines.

Your State or Province
Each state and province has varying requirements for credentialing, state examinations and, in some cases, eligibility for the VTNE.  Please visit our Board & Agency Directory for the contact information for your state or province.

Application Process

What is the application process?
To take the VTNE, you must apply and pay for the exam and you must apply for eligibility to take the exam. 

How do I apply?
For the VTNE application and additional application information, click here. (How to apply page)

Are late applications accepted?
No late applications will be accepted.  

Eligibility for the VTNE

Can I take the VTNE if I have only On-the-Job Training (OJT)?
To be sure of current requirements, use the Board and Agency Directory for contact information for your state or province.  Some of the remaining states allowing On-the-Job Training (OJT) and alternate pathway states include Alaska, Delaware, and Washington.  Oregon accepts OJT for Oregon veterinary technicians only.

Can I take the VTNE if:
a) I have a degree in a related field, such as biology?
b) I am a foreign educated technician?
c) I am a veterinarian?

In most jurisdictions to take the VTNE, you must be a graduate of an American or Canadian VMA accredited veterinary technology program, or a program approved by the Board.  Please use the Board and Agency Directory for contact information.

For additional information on Eligibility for First-Time test takers, click here.

For additional information on Eligibility for Retakers, click here.

Transcripts

What is an official transcript?
An official transcript comes directly from the school.  You can request your school to send an official transcript through your registrar’s office. In some cases, the school may provide a transcript to candidates in a sealed envelope which can be forwarded to AAVSB unopened. 

Can I send a copy of my diploma?
No, only official transcripts showing a graduation date are accepted as proof of graduation. 

Where do I have my official transcript sent?
VTNE Program
AAVSB
380 West 22nd Street
Suite 101
Kansas City, MO  64108

Special Accommodations

How do I apply for special accommodations?
For those states which AAVSB handles the eligibility review, please complete a Request for Special Accommodation (pdf) and be sure it is completed and at the AAVSB office no later than the Application and Document Deadline above.

Taking the Exam

When will I receive an email with my Authorization-to-Test (ATT) letter?
After your eligibility has been determined, you will receive an ATT letter by email within a week. 

What is an ATT letter?
After your application and eligibility have been processed, if approved, you will receive an Authorization-to-Test (ATT) letter from Professional Examination Service (PES).  This letter explains how to make an examination appointment at a Prometric Testing Center which will determine the date, time, and location of your exam.

Where are the Prometric Testing Centers located?
Visit www.prometric.com/aavsb for Testing Center locations.

How do I reschedule my examination appointment?
Your ATT letter will have the information on how to reschedule your examination appointment.

What is your policy on refunds?
The VTNE Candidate Handbook includes information on requesting refunds.  Click here to view the Candidate Handbook.

Score Reporting

How do I get my scores?
Prior to leaving the Prometric Testing Center, candidates will view a preliminary Pass or Fail on the computer screen. 
An official score report will be posted on your MyAAVSB account when available.

How will I know when my scores are available?
You will be emailed to check your MyAAVSB accounts when the official score reports are ready to be viewed.  This will be approximately 4 weeks after the exam date. 

Can I get my score over the phone?
No, scores cannot be rushed or given over the phone.

Does the state or province I picked on my application get my scores?
Yes, the state you picked on your application will receive your scores after the exam window closes.

How do I get my scores sent to a state or province other than the one I picked on my application?
Complete the online application to request a Score Transfer.  AAVSB will send the scores to your new state or province in the format that the state or province requires.

After I pass, will I ever have to take the VTNE again?
Whether you are required to take the VTNE again during your career as a veterinary technician will depend on your desire to be credentialed in a new or different state or province.  Keep in mind some states and provinces might have a time limit on VTNE scores.

Credentialing

Does AAVSB issue a credential document to me?
No.

How do I get my license or certificate after I pass the VTNE?
You must apply to your state for credentialing.  The state or province you picked on your VTNE application will receive a copy of your exam scores.  Check the Board and Agency Directory for contact information and credentialing requirements for your state or province.

Is there a national license for Veterinary Technicians?
No, each state or province makes its own regulations about Veterinary Technician licensing or registrations.