Veterinary Technician / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts Veterinary Technician License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Assists veterinarians in medical and surgical procedures.

What the Massachusetts data shows for Veterinary Technicians

Massachusetts sets the entry bar for veterinary technicians at 2,135 training hours and a passing score on VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Massachusetts's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree in Veterinary Technology".

Upfront cost is $177, with renewal running $145 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, veterinary technicians should know: VTNE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required.

Licensing Requirements in Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree in Veterinary Technology
2,135 hours
Exam Requirement
VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$177
Renewal Fee
$145
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Veterinary Technician in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts requires 2135 education/training hours, passing an exam (VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam)), and an initial fee of $177. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Veterinary Technician in Massachusetts? ▼
Certification as a veterinary technician in Massachusetts means clearing the state's checklist: 2135 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Massachusetts licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Veterinary Technician license to Massachusetts from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for veterinary technicians: VTNE recognized nationwide — state licensing still required. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for Veterinary Technician licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for veterinary technician licensing in Massachusetts. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Veterinary Technician in Massachusetts? ▼
To stay licensed as a veterinary technician in Massachusetts, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $145.

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.