Apply for a License
- Apply online
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Getting started
Online Application Instructions
Online application instructions are on our website.
Once you have completed the process, and submitted your application, you will receive an email with your pending credential number, or you may look on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact Department of Health or submit paperwork.
- Apply on paper
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The following PDF forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print forms.
Fee Schedule
- See fee information below
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Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount State Examination (initial/retake) $160 Initial License $126* Renewal $91* Late Renewal Penalty $80 Expired License Reissuance $80 Duplicate License $10 Certification of License $25 * Includes the $16.00 UW HEAL-WA fee.
WAC 246-12-340 - Refund of fees
Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession are nonrefundable.
Registration Requirements
- See requirements below
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Education
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Graduation from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited school in veterinary technology.
- Graduation from a Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)-accredited school in veterinary technology.
- Graduation from a two-year curriculum in animal health or veterinary technology which is not accredited, plus a minimum of 36 months of full-time experience under the supervision of one or more licensed veterinarians.
- Licensure as a veterinary technician in another state and 36 months of full-time experience.
- DVM or VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited college of veterinary medicine.
- Completion of a course in veterinary technician education as a member of the U.S. military and completion of a tour of active duty as a veterinary technician or specialist.
An official transcript with degree and date posted must be received directly from applicant's program. Transcripts not in English must have an official translation.
Examination
Applicants must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
State License Verification
Applicants must list all states where they do or did hold credentials. This list must also include when the applicant has applied for a credential, even if a credential was not granted. The jurisdiction where the applicant is or was credentialed must complete and submit the verification form. The jurisdiction must send the completed form directly to the department.
Personal Data Questions
Each applicant must answer the personal data questions. If there is a positive answer to the professional liability claims history question, the applicant must send an explanation of the nature of the case, data and summary of care given, copies of the original complaint, and the settlement or final disposition. If a case is pending, applicant must indicate status.
Additional Information/Documents Required
- Successful completion of the Washington State Jurisprudence Examination
Process for Approving/Denying Applications
We finish final review for approval after a credentialing specialist verifies that the application is fully complete, and complies with requirements in chapter 18.92 RCW and chapter 246-935 WAC. We complete background checks and make sure applicants have submitted required fees. Credentialing supervisors and lead workers have the authority to approve routine applications. The disciplining authority may conduct further review if the credentialing supervisor can't verify the applicant meets all requirements. We'll formally notify applicants of a denial. Those applicants may request a hearing to appeal the decision.
Renewal Requirements
Veterinary technicians must renew their license every year. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday and may be renewed within 90 days of the expiration date.
Continuing Education Requirements
Starting January 1, veterinary technicians must complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing every two years in order to renew their license. See WAC 246-935-270 through WAC 246-935-310 for continuing education requirements. Live, web-based courses are not subject to an hour limitation as long as they occur in real time, attendees receive written or verbal responses their questions, and other veterinary technicians are able to participate at the same time.