Veterinarian / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana Veterinarian License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides medical care for animals. Requires DVM degree.

What the Montana data shows for Veterinarians

Montana's path to veterinarian licensure runs through 5,514 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Montana folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)".

Upfront cost is $403, with renewal running $327 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: NAVLE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
5,514 hours
Exam Requirement
NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$403
Renewal Fee
$327
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Veterinarian All Montana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Veterinarian in Montana? ▼
Montana requires 5514 education/training hours, passing an exam (NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam)), and an initial fee of $403. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Veterinarian in Montana? ▼
Certification as a veterinarian in Montana means clearing the state's checklist: 5514 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Montana licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Montana from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for veterinarians nationally works like this: NAVLE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Montana. Verify the specifics with the Montana licensing board.
Does Montana require a background check for Veterinarian licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for veterinarian licensing in Montana. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Veterinarian in Montana? ▼
Licensed veterinarians in Montana must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $327.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.