Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) 

Overview

The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME) licenses and regulates veterinary technicians under a law passed by the 83rd Legislature, effective September 1, 2014. Only individuals with an LVT license may use the title “Licensed Veterinary Technician” in Texas. While licensure is optional, it signifies a professional commitment to high standards in veterinary care. 

Eligibility Requirements

Criminal History and Fingerprinting

As of October 1, 2018, all applicants must meet the fingerprinting requirement and submit fingerprints before licensure. Any individuals with concerns about a criminal history affecting their eligibility can request a pre-licensure evaluation.

Educational Requirements

LVT license applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Graduate from an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technician program (alternate routes are not accepted). 
• Pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) before taking the Texas State Board Exam (SBE).

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

• 10 Hours Annually: LVTs must complete 10 hours of acceptable CE each year.
• Up to 10 hours may be from live/in real-time/interactive courses— in person or online.
• Up to 2 hours may be from practice management courses.
• Up to 4 hours may be from non-interactive/pre-recorded/on-demand correspondence courses.
• Up to 2 hours may be from self-study.
• CE completed before licensure does not count toward renewal. 
• Maintain hard or electronic copies of CE certificates for 4 years for audit purposes. 

Failure to meet CE requirements may result in disciplinary action. Refer to Rule 573.66 for details. 

On the Continuing Education page, you can find more information including Proof of Continuing Education and Acceptable CE Providers.

Applying for an LVT License

To practice in Texas, applicants must pass the State Board Exam (SBE) and meet all licensing eligibility requirements. Practicing with an expired license violates state law.

Follow these step-by-step instructions to begin the application process.

Helpful Links

• AVMA — Accredited Schools
• Chapter 571: Licensing
• Chapter 573: Rules of Professional Conduct
• Chapter 575: Practice and Procedure
• Chapter 577: General Administration and Duties

Need more help? Contact the Licensing Department at 512-305-7555 or email licensing@veterinary.texas.gov.