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, you will find your pending credential number on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact the 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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WAC 246-935-990 - Veterinary technician fees and renewal cycle
- 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.
Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession are nonrefundable, per WAC 246-12-340.
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.
Understanding your Application
All professions within the Department of Health (DOH) are unique. While the sections identified below can often be found on most applications, it is important to be aware of the requirements and rules of your specific credential(s).
After you submit your application, please watch for email communication from DOH. Throughout the application process promptly reply to all questions and requests. Delayed responses cause a longer wait for your credential to be issued. We highly encourage using our online application services.
- Demographic Information
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Demographic data is used to create an account within the DOH database, verify your identity, and collect contact information. Please carefully provide accurate and complete answers to all applicable demographic questions.
- Military
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It is valuable to indicate your military or spouse status on your DOH application. Appropriate documentation is necessary for all military related applications, and it is important to be aware of documents you need to provide to DOH. In some cases, military education, training, and experience may count towards attaining certain health care professional credentials. As a spouse or registered domestic partner of a service member, you may be eligible to have the processing time of your application expedited.
To find information and resources for military personnel and their spouses visit the Military Resources website.
- Personal Data Questions
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All applicants must respond to the personal data questions, which focus on their ability to demonstrate the essential skills required for their profession.
Carefully review all questions. Please note that “yes” answers require an explanation and additional documentation as outlined on your application. If applicable, please be aware of the necessary documentation and provide it to DOH as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing your application.
- Other Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
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DOH must verify all other credentials. List all states, including Washington State, where credentials are or were held. If you have applicable credentials to list, you may be required to provide an Out-of-State Credential Verification form. This form can be found in the paper application packet or on the Apply for License page. The form must be sent to each state listed and returned to DOH.
Please remember to provide all in-state and out-of-state credentials, including active, expired, and in-renewal. Individual states may require a fee for sending your verification to us, please check in advance to help expedite this process.
- Education
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To verify your qualifications, we must review all educational preparation and post-graduate training. Applicants must request official transcripts from the school(s) attended and the school needs to send them directly to DOH .
- Exam
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In some cases, passing an exam may be required to receive your credential. It is important to be aware of whether this applies to your credential. Exam scores must be sent from the exam host to the department. For more information on exams that may apply to your credential, visit your profession page.
- Supervised Experience
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Supervised experience may be necessary to receive your credential or maintain it as you practice. Supervision rules and requirements vary from profession to profession, please visit your professions page to learn more about supervision requirements for your credential.
Important Reminders
- Fees
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Fees must be paid when an application is submitted. You can pay online while using the online application portal, or by sending a check or money order to the appropriate PO Box as listed on your application.
Applications with unpaid fees cannot be processed until payment is received.
- Background Check
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A background check is processed for every applicant. DOH may need to obtain a fingerprint-based background check with Washington State Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If this is required for your application, you will be contacted by DOH and it is your responsibility to complete the required steps to submit this background check.