Step By Step Guide To Become A Veterinary Technician In Ohio 2025
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Veterinary technicians in Ohio work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. They assist with surgeries, conduct laboratory procedures, take and develop x-rays, provide nursing care, and educate animal owners on proper care. Ohio regulations require that veterinary technicians be credentialed to ensure they meet the state's professional standards.
Step 2: Complete a Veterinary Technician Program Accredited by the AVMA
To qualify as a veterinary technician in Ohio, you must graduate from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited veterinary technology program. Programs in Ohio typically offer an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology and normally take two years to complete.
- Accredited Programs: Visit the AVMA website to find accredited programs in Ohio.
- Coursework: Expect courses in animal anatomy and physiology, clinical practices, anesthesiology, and lab techniques.
Step 3: Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE)
After completing your accredited program, you are eligible to sit for the VTNE, which is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
- Registration Process: Create an account and register for the VTNE on the AAVSB website.
- Exam Fee: The cost to take the VTNE is $330.
- Exam Schedule: The VTNE is offered during three testing windows every year: March 15-April 15, July 15-August 15, and November 15-December 15.
Step 4: Apply for Licensure in Ohio
Upon passing the VTNE, apply for a license with the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board (OVMLB).
- Application: Complete the application found on the OVMLB website.
- Application Fee: The initial application fee is $25.
- Documentation Required: Provide proof of graduation from an accredited program and your VTNE score.
- Renewal: Ohio licenses expire annually on March 1st. Renewals require proof of continuing education credits.
Step 5: Maintain Licensure Through Continuing Education
To maintain your veterinary technician license in Ohio, you must complete continuing education (CE) requirements as mandated by the OVMLB.
- CE Requirements: Veterinary technicians are required to complete at least 10 hours of CE each year.
- Approved Providers: CE must be approved by the OVMLB or provided by recognized veterinary professional organizations.
- Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of completed CE hours as the OVMLB may audit them.
Step 6: Explore Employment Opportunities in Ohio
Veterinary technicians can work in various settings, including private veterinary practices, animal hospitals, research facilities, and animal shelters.
Step 7: Consider Specialty Certification
Pursuing specialty certification can enhance career opportunities. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) offers several specialty certifications ranging from dentistry to anesthesia.
- Eligibility: Requirements vary by specialty, typically involving additional work experience and passing a specialty exam.
- Process: Visit the NAVTA website for further information on specialty certifications.
This guide provides a clear pathway to becoming a veterinary technician in Ohio by outlining state-specific requirements and processes. For further details, consult the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board’s homepage.