Veterinary Technician National Examination
The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) offers the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). The VTNE test is used for credentialing purposes. Those who pass the exam have met the highest standards of knowledge and professionalism in the veterinary field.
If you are interested in the VTNE test, you first must be eligible for it as a graduate of an accredited veterinary technology program in the United States or Canada. The VTNE test is a computer-based test that can be taken at more than 250 locations throughout the country. It is only available during three testing windows throughout the year. These testing windows are one month long and generally occur in spring, summer, and winter. You will need to apply within 30 days before the start of each of these windows and will need to submit an application and a $300 fee, which includes the testing fee.
If you are deemed eligible to take the VTNE test, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter. The ATT letter will provide you with instructions on how to schedule the test and what to bring. You will need to schedule the VTNE test online or via telephone.
On the day of the VTNE test, plan to arrive at the testing center 30 minutes early. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID and your ATT letter. You will not be allowed to bring any items into the testing area except for small earplugs. You will be given a note board and marker to use as scratch paper and will be allowed to use the on-screen calculator on the computer.
You will be given four hours to complete the VTNE test. It contains 225 multiple-choice questions in seven main areas. The pharmacy and pharmacology section tests your knowledge of the preparation and dosage of drugs, as well as communication to clients about the drugs.
- The surgical prep and assisting section of the VTNE test includes questions about preparing surgical environments, preparing patients and maintaining a safe and clean environment during the procedure.
- The dentistry section includes questions about preparing a patient for a dental exam, gathering equipment, and performing or assisting with dental procedures such as radiography, therapy, prophylactics, and charting.
- The laboratory procedures section of the VTNE test assesses your knowledge of collecting and preparing specimens for evaluation, performing laboratory tests and procedures, and maintaining equipment.
- The animal care and nursing section involves pre- and post-operative care, evaluating animal behavior, performing diagnostic procedures, and providing a safe and clean environment for animals.
- The diagnostic imaging section of the VTNE test assesses your knowledge of producing diagnostic images and maintaining equipment. The anesthesia and analgesia section includes questions about developing and implementing anesthetic plans and maintaining equipment.
After you complete the VTNE test, you will be given your unofficial results. Within four weeks, you will sent an e-mail with instructions on how to retrieve your official score report online. Your scores are converted into a scale score. Depending on your state, your score may range from 200 to 800 with a passing score of 425, or from 0 to 100, with a passing score of 75. If you pass, you must apply with your state to receive a credential. The AAVSB does not give credentials. If you fail the VTNE test, you can take it a total of five times, you must pay an application fee each time.
Last Updated: 04/24/2012