Become a Vet Tech in Texas

Steps to become a Vet Tech in Texas

1. Earn a minimum of an Associate in Applied Science degree in Veterinary Technology. There are several AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) accredited Veterinary Technician Programs in the State of Texas you can attend to earn a veterinary technician degree. One of the Texas vet tech programs also offers a distance education style of presentation. Most of the programs are two years in length to earn an AAS degree. All of the programs offer some lecture style presentation of material, as well as hands on, practical work with animals. Some programs have clinical rotations while others have animals housed on site for laboratory sessions with the students. You must have an AAS in Veterinary Technology in order to sit for the National and State Exams in Texas.


2. Pass the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam) with a score higher than a 70%. The VTNE is owned by AAVSB (American Association of Veterinary State Boards) and is responsible for processing the applications for those technicians that want to take the test in Texas. Every state is different, but Texas chooses to have AAVSB process the applications. Online forms and information can be found at the AAVSB website at www.aavsb.org. The test is a 200-question multiple choice style exam. Currently it is offered twice per year (the third Friday of January and 3rd Friday of June) but the examination will be transforming into a computer-based exam, which will allow more frequent administration. Content of the test is that which is expected of an entry-level veterinary technician. Areas such as anesthesia, dentistry, surgery, clinical pathology, husbandry, etc., for all common domestic, farm and laboratory species is included.
3. Pass the State Regulatory Exam. The State Regulatory Exam is administered by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) and contains material relevant to the Texas Veterinary Licensing Act, the Rules of Professional Conduct and the RVT Policy Manual. It also may include any regulatory information pertinent to veterinary technicians. The test is a multiple choice, true/false format. TVMA has a study guide available on their website for use by prospective candidates.
4. Registration is not required to practice as a veterinary technician, but doing so often leads to increased job responsibilities and marketability. Registration is obtained by contacting the TVMA and submitting the required information, such as proof of successfully passing the VTNE and State Regulatory exams, as well as submitting the required fee.
5. Registrations must be renewed every year. Renewal is due each year by May 31. The required fee, renewal form and proof of continuing education attendance are the required information that must be submitted. If a renewal date is missed, the technician has one year before they will be placed on delinquent status.