FAQ
Veterinary Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a veterinary technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a veterinary technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about veterinary technicians
What’s the difference between a vet tech and a vet assistant?
Vet techs complete degrees and credentials and perform advanced tasks; assistants support with basic care.
How long does it take to become a vet tech?
About two years.
Do vet techs need a license?
Most states require a credential.
How much does a veterinary technician make?
The median annual wage for veterinary technicians was $47,380 ($22.78 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,710 and the highest 10% earned more than $63,180.
How long does it take to become a veterinary technician?
Most people need about 2 years of training. Most vet techs complete a two-year associate degree accredited by the AVMA, pass the VTNE and meet state credentialing requirements.
Do you need a degree to be a veterinary technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
Is veterinary technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +9.4% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 13,400 openings each year. Upsides include work with animals every day; a common challenge is that pay can be modest.
What skills does a veterinary technician need?
Key technical skills include animal restraint, anesthesia monitoring, radiography, and lab testing. Employers also value compassion, calm under pressure, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for veterinary technicians?
Common credentials include Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), State credential (CVT, LVT or RVT), Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS), and Fear Free certification. Most states credential veterinary technicians, usually requiring an accredited program and the VTNE.
Still deciding?
Try the Veterinary Technician fit quiz, compare with Veterinary Assistant, or explore Veterinary Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2056 (Veterinary technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Veterinary technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.