Veterinarian / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Veterinarian License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Provides medical care for animals. Requires DVM degree.

What the Virginia data shows for Veterinarians

To practice as a veterinarian in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 4,811 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)".

The initial price tag is $262, and renewal costs $222 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, veterinarians should know: NAVLE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required.

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
4,811 hours
Exam Requirement
NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$262
Renewal Fee
$222
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 Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Veterinarian in Virginia? ▼
Virginia requires 4811 education/training hours, passing an exam (NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Exam)), and an initial fee of $262. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Veterinarian in Virginia? ▼
Virginia licenses veterinarians who complete its requirements (4811 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Virginia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Virginia from another state? ▼
For veterinarians, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NAVLE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Virginia licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Virginia require a background check for Veterinarian licensing? ▼
Yes, Virginia requires a criminal background check as part of the veterinarian licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Veterinarian in Virginia? ▼
Virginia ties continued veterinarian licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $222 renewal fee.

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.