AAVSB certification exam covering veterinary technology practice across small and large animal care.
Who it's for
Graduates of an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program seeking national credentialing as a veterinary technician — the required national exam component of state veterinary technician licensure/registration in the great majority of US jurisdictions.
What's covered
- Pharmacology and pain management
- Surgical nursing and anesthesia
- Animal care and nursing
- Diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures
What to expect
Expect species-spanning clinical scenarios across small and large animal care, since the VTNE is a generalist exam covering the full breadth of veterinary technology practice rather than one species or specialty.
How to prepare
AAVSB sells an official VTNE practice test bundle directly through its website; most candidates prepare using their veterinary technology program's coursework as the primary foundation, supplemented by the official practice test to gauge readiness closer to exam day.
Certification details
- Certifying body: American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
- Eligibility: Graduation from an AVMA-CVTEA accredited veterinary technology program (or an equivalent pathway recognized by the state/jurisdiction).
- Exam format: 170 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 20 unscored pretest), 3-hour time limit, computer-based testing at PSI test centers.
- Content outline: Pharmacology, surgical nursing, animal care/nursing, laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia, and emergency/critical care.
- Note: Passing the VTNE is generally one component of state credentialing (licensure/registration) requirements, which vary by jurisdiction.
