The AAVSB Implements VTNE Policy Changes for 2025

Overland Park, KS (Sept. 17, 2024) – The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) recently made important decisions to modify the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE®) policy. The VTNE plays a pivotal role in enabling Member Boards or jurisdictions to make informed credentialing decisions, and ensure Veterinary Technicians possess the minimal competencies to practice in their jurisdiction without harming the public or animals. 

After months of conversations with Member Boards, Program Directors, Allied Organizations, and licensure candidates, the AAVSB identified changes to the VTNE application process and exam windows that will take effect for all 2025 exams and applications. 

Several changes to the exam windows, the submission, and the review processes will streamline the VTNE application process for all stakeholders now managed by the AAVSB. This results in more efficient operations and faster reporting for all candidates, Program Directors, and Member Boards.

Changes in the exam window include an increase in the total exam windows from three to four annual windows, an extension of the exam window to two months, and an open application, which allows candidates to apply at any time. In addition to these changes, students in accredited programs will be able to take the exam during their last semester of coursework based on the discretion of the program they are enrolled in. 

The new exam windows are as follows: 

·     Feb 15 – Apr 15 

·     May 15 – July 15 

·     Aug 15 – Oct 15 

·     Nov 15 – Jan 15

The current exam windows will officially close on December 15, 2024. The application for 2025 exams will open December 15, 2024; the next exam window will open on February 15, 2025.  

The AAVSB Portal will act as an information hub for Member Boards, thus streamlining the process significantly for all candidates, Program Directors, and Member Boards. All candidate rosters, primary source transcripts, On-the-Job Training forms, and scores will be housed in the AAVSB Portal. The AAVSB will utilize state-specific forms for the On-the-Job Training verification.

The changes will streamline information for all candidates, Program Directors, and Member Boards and reduce previous score reporting wait times. As the AAVSB prepares for the VTNE Policy changes for 2025, the website will be updated accordingly.

All feedback is valued. Direct any questions to Channing Benson, Exams Program Manager, at [email protected].

Thank you,

James T. Penrod

Chief Executive Officer

American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB)