Career roadmap
How to Become a Veterinary Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a veterinary technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a veterinary technician: (1) gain animal experience, (2) complete an accredited program, (3) pass the VTNE, (4) get credentialed, (5) specialize. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a veterinary technician
Gain animal experience
Volunteer at shelters or clinics.
Complete an accredited program
Earn an associate degree.
Pass the VTNE
Take the national exam.
Get credentialed
Meet state requirements.
Specialize
Pursue a VTS or lead roles.
Education and training requirements
Most vet techs complete a two-year associate degree accredited by the AVMA, pass the VTNE and meet state credentialing requirements.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE): The national credentialing exam.
- State credential (CVT, LVT or RVT): Required in most states.
- Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS): Advanced specialty credentials.
- Fear Free certification: Training in low-stress handling.
Skills to build now
Start with animal restraint, anesthesia monitoring, and radiography, and practice compassion and calm under pressure. Learning the veterinary technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Veterinary Assistant: Support care.
- Veterinary Technician: Provide nursing care.
- Specialist (VTS): Specialize in anesthesia, dentistry or emergency.
- Practice or Hospital Manager: Lead operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Veterinary Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a vet tech?
About two years.
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.
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.
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.