Professional Licensure Pathway
For prospective students interested in pursuing a career as a licensed veterinarian, it is crucial to understand the requirements for veterinary professional licensure. The College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to providing all necessary resources and guidance to help students navigate the licensure process successfully. Below is an overview of the typical requirements:
- Completion of an Accredited DVM Program: To be eligible for licensure, students must graduate from an accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which includes the completion of a minimum of 40 weeks of clinical rotations which are intended to expose students to a variety of hands-on experiences such as surgery, internal medicine, and emergency care. These rotations are designed to meet the clinical hours and skills required for licensure.
- North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE): All students seeking veterinary licensure in the United States must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). This comprehensive examination assesses the competency of candidates to practice veterinary medicine. The NAVLE is offered twice a year, typically in November-December and April. Students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly using college-provided resources, including review courses, study materials, and practice exams.
- State-Specific Licensing Requirements: In addition to passing the NAVLE, each state and jurisdiction may have its own specific licensing requirements set forth by their veterinary regulatory board or licensure entity. These may include:
- State Jurisprudence Exams: Some states require a jurisprudence exam that assesses the candidate’s knowledge of state veterinary laws and regulations.
- Additional Clinical Skills Assessments: Certain states may require further testing or practical assessments to verify clinical competencies.
- AVMA list of all veterinary state board websites
- Utah specific veterinary professional licensing Rule: R156-28 Veterinary Practice Act Rule
- Utah Division of Professional Licensing site for veterinarians
- Application for veterinary licensure in Utah through the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing
- Continuing Education and Professional Development: While initial licensure is a crucial step, maintaining veterinary licensure requires ongoing professional development. Licensed veterinarians must complete a certain number of continuing education (CE) hours annually to keep their license active. The college supports alumni by offering CE courses, seminars, and workshops to help them stay updated on the latest developments and practices in veterinary medicine. CE is also offered at the Mountainlands Utah Veterinary Summit (hosted by the USU CVM on October 18-20, 2024).
- Additional Requirements for International Students: International students or graduates of non-AVMA accredited schools must meet additional requirements to practice in the United States, such as the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) program or the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE).
Because licensing requirements can change, the college will encourage students to contact the licensing agency in the state in which you wish to become licensed to determine current requirements, including educational ones. The college with support from the shared resources of the USU Office of Global Engagement will provide advising for international students to help them navigate these pathways to licensure.
- Application Process for Licensure: After graduation and successful completion of the NAVLE, students must apply for licensure in the state where they wish to practice. This typically includes:
- Submission of official transcripts and proof of graduation.
- Application forms, fees, and proof of passing the NAVLE.
- Verification of clinical experience hours and other state-specific documentation.