Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE)
The AAVSB owns and administers the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and provides applicants’ scores to the state or province in which one plans to practice. However, simply passing the VTNE does NOT mean you are allowed to practice in Louisiana or any other state!
AVMA Accredited Student or Graduate?
You only need to apply with the AAVSB to sit for the VTNE if you are a current student or a graduate from an AVMA-Accredited veterinary technology program. You do not need LBVM approval to sit for the VTNE.
However, If you want to practice as a registered veterinary technician in Louisiana, you must apply for and be issued RVT certification through the LBVM.
Non-AVMA Accredited Student/Grad
You must apply to both AAVSB and to the LBVM before you can sit for the VTNE. Both the LBVM and AAVSB must review and approve your application to site for the VTNE.
Testing Dates & Deadline
| Examination Date | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| February 15 – April 15, 2026 | Deadline to apply: March 15, 2026 |
| May 15 – July 15, 2026 | Deadline to apply: June 15, 2026 |
| August 15 – October 15, 2026 | Deadline to apply: September 15, 2026 |
| November 15, 2026 – January 15, 2027 | Deadline to apply: December 15, 2026 |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Many Times Can I Take the VTNE?
AAVSB allows candidates to sit for the VTNE no more than five times. Board Rule 803.H follows AAVSB’s policy and states: “An applicant for licensure may only sit for the national examination a maximum of five times. Thereafter, the applicant will no longer be eligible for certification in Louisiana and any applications submitted will be rejected.”
There are no proposed or expected amendments to the AAVSB’s policy or Board Rules regarding this limit of attempts.
Is Your VTNE Score Over Three Years Old?
Applicants must have passed the VTNE within three years of the application submission date; otherwise, they must retake the exam. The VTNE retake requirement may be waived if specific waiver criteria are met.
Need Testing Accommodations?
When you apply with AAVSB, you’ll have an opportunity to indicate if you need accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Canadian Human Rights Act. The process can take time, so, if you anticipate the need to request accommodations, it’s best to start the process early in the application window. Download and review the VTNE Accommodations Guide for more information.