Do veterinary technologists need a license?

Yes. Most states require veterinary technologists to pass the VTNE and hold a state license.

How long does it take to become a veterinary technologist?

It typically takes about four years to earn a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology.

What is the difference between a vet tech and a vet technologist?

Vet technicians usually hold associate degrees, while vet technologists hold bachelor’s degrees and can work in more advanced roles.

Where do veterinary technologists work?

They work in clinics, research facilities, zoos, and laboratories assisting veterinarians and researchers.

Is veterinary technology a good career?

Yes. It offers meaningful, hands-on work with animals, growing demand, and paths for specialization.

How to Become a Veterinary Technologist

Updated November 3, 2025 | Brad Fishbein Table of Contents

Veterinary technologists assist veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals.
They combine compassion for animals with clinical and laboratory skills that support animal health every day.

If you’re passionate about science, pets, and medical care, becoming a veterinary technologist offers a hands-on healthcare career that makes a real difference.

What Veterinary Technologists Do

Veterinary technologists work closely with veterinarians to provide medical care for animals. They perform clinical tests, assist during surgeries, and help with diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures.

Typical Responsibilities

Collect samples and perform lab tests
Monitor anesthesia and surgical patients
Take X-rays and diagnostic images
Administer medications and vaccines
Assist in emergency and critical care
Communicate with pet owners and maintain medical records

Veterinary technologists are the backbone of animal healthcare teams, blending compassion with science to improve animal well-being.

Key Skills and Traits for Success

Compassion for animals and their owners
Strong attention to detail
Knowledge of anatomy and medical procedures
Manual dexterity and steady hands
Communication and teamwork skills
Ability to handle stressful clinical situations

Common Work Environments

Veterinary technologists work in:

Animal hospitals and private veterinary clinics
Research laboratories
Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers
Government and public health agencies
Universities and diagnostic labs

How to Become a Veterinary Technologist (5 Steps)

1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED

Take science classes such as biology, chemistry, and animal science to prepare for veterinary technology programs.

2. Complete an Accredited Veterinary Technology Program

Enroll in a bachelor’s degree program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Coursework covers anatomy, animal nursing, and radiology.

3. Gain Clinical Experience

Participate in internships or externships through your program to develop real-world experience in animal care settings.

4. Pass the VTNE

After graduation, take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to qualify for state licensing.

5. Get Licensed and Continue Education

Obtain a state license to practice legally. Ongoing continuing education ensures skills stay current with veterinary medicine standards.

Education and Certification Options

Pathway	Typical Duration	Outcome
Bachelor’s Degree	4 years	Required for most veterinary technologist roles
Associate Degree	2 years	Qualifies for veterinary technician positions
Continuing Education	Ongoing	Maintains state license and certification

Career Growth and Advancement

With experience, veterinary technologists can move into:

Veterinary Laboratory Specialist – focuses on diagnostics and testing
Research Technician – works in biomedical or pharmaceutical labs
Veterinary Practice Manager – handles operations and team management
Animal Nutrition or Behavior Specialist – supports advanced animal care programs

Cost and Duration of Training

Program Cost: $10,000–$35,000 depending on degree and location
Duration: 2–4 years
Certification Exam Fee: around $325 for the VTNE

Accredited veterinary technology programs blend classroom science with hands-on clinical training for a complete learning experience.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros

Rewarding work helping animals
Strong demand in animal healthcare
Opportunities for specialization
Variety of work environments

⚠️ Cons

Emotionally challenging cases
Physical and fast-paced environment
May involve nights, weekends, or on-call shifts

Quick Facts: Veterinary Technologist Salary, Education, and Outlook

BLS data not available.

Veterinary Technologist Salary by State

No salary data available for this program.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS).

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.

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