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Delaware Veterinarian — Requirements & Free Practice

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Veterinarian

Delaware veterinarian license. Veterinary specialties are branches of this profession under §3302(9); the practice exemptions of §3303B are not separate Board-issued licenses. Examination, reciprocity, renewal, inactive-status, reinstatement and restoration pathways are recorded separately.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Veterinary Medicine · Application information

Reinstatement Following Disability Based Suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Hearing
License was suspended because of disability; after a hearing, the Board must be satisfied that the licensee can practice with reasonable skill and safety under §3317(d).
Continuing Education
Proof of continuing education may be required as appropriate.
Corrective Measures
The Board may impose corrective measures authorized by §3317(e).
Documentation
Meet corrective-action and suspension conditions, provide required evidence, and pay the applicable fees under §3312.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Licensure by Examination — AVMA accredited graduates
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited school or college; submit the official transcript directly to the Board. A final-year student may be approved for NAVLE with school verification, but no license is approved until graduation is proven.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Licensure by Examination — graduates of non AVMA accredited programs
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Possess a Board-approved certificate: ECFVG or its successor, PAVE or its successor, or CVMA Certificate of Qualification or its successor, under rule 6.1.2 and §§3313(a)(1), 3314(c). The Board page requires this evaluation before NAVLE eligibility. These state provisions name certification programs, not their individual examinations.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Placement of Existing License on Inactive Status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Existing licensee who is not actively practicing in Delaware; request inactive status in writing or through a DELPROS service request.
Fee
Applicable inactive-status fee; §3309(c) prorates the renewal fee for the time inactive.
Practice Restriction
Do not practice in Delaware while inactive.
Timing
The Board page requires the inactive-status request before the late renewal period ends.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Biennial Renewal of Inactive Status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
License already on inactive status; submit an extension request coinciding with biennial renewal and pay the inactive-status renewal fee.
Practice Restriction
Renewal retains inactive status for two more years and does not authorize practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Reinstatement of Lapsed License — 12 to 24 months
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Continuing Education
Provide 24 hours completed within the two years before reinstatement under rule 10.2.1; pay the reinstatement fee.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Implementation Difference
The Board renewal page states: "If you fail to renew within one year, your license will terminate. To resume practicing in Delaware after termination, you must submit a request for reinstatement in DELPROS, pay a fee and submit continuing education for a full two-year period." The statute and rule 10.2.1 specify the applicable conditions and CE window.
Lapse Period
Lapse of 12 to 24 months
Other License
Section 3314(d) makes reinstatement subject to §3314(a): proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction, written application and fee.
Practice Restriction
No practice while the license is lapsed; resume only after reinstatement.
Prior License
Previously licensed as a veterinarian in Delaware; license has lapsed after the one-year late-renewal period.
Statutory Examination Difference
Section 3309(b) says the former licensee "reapplies under the same conditions which govern reciprocity." Section 3314(d) instead makes the prior Delaware licensee subject to subsection (a) and continuing education. Following the contract for same-rank disagreement, retain the currently offered NAVLE involved in reciprocity; the narrower §3314(d) provision is preserved as an applicant condition and does not assert that every reinstatement applicant must sit NAVLE again.
Reinstatement of Lapsed License — over 24 months
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Continuing Education
Provide 36 hours completed within the three years before reinstatement under rule 10.2.1; pay the reinstatement fee.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Implementation Difference
The Board renewal page states: "If you fail to renew within one year, your license will terminate. To resume practicing in Delaware after termination, you must submit a request for reinstatement in DELPROS, pay a fee and submit continuing education for a full two-year period." The statute and rule 10.2.1 specify the applicable conditions and CE window.
Lapse Period
Lapse of over 24 months
Other License
Section 3314(d) makes reinstatement subject to §3314(a): proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction, written application and fee.
Practice Restriction
No practice while the license is lapsed; resume only after reinstatement.
Prior License
Previously licensed as a veterinarian in Delaware; license has lapsed after the one-year late-renewal period.
Statutory Examination Difference
Section 3309(b) says the former licensee "reapplies under the same conditions which govern reciprocity." Section 3314(d) instead makes the prior Delaware licensee subject to subsection (a) and continuing education. Following the contract for same-rank disagreement, retain the currently offered NAVLE involved in reciprocity; the narrower §3314(d) provision is preserved as an applicant condition and does not assert that every reinstatement applicant must sit NAVLE again.
Late Renewal Within One Year of Expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Attest to 24 hours of approved continuing education in the preceding two years under rule 10.1.1, subject to its new-license proration and Board hardship extension or waiver provisions; maintain evidence for random audit.
Eligibility
License expired no more than one year ago. Submit the renewal application and renewal fee plus late fee.
Expiration Source Difference
Rule 9.1 states: "Licenses shall expire biennially on every odd numbered year." The lower-ranked Board renewal page states: "Veterinary licenses expire on July 31 of even years (e.g., 2016, 2018)." The regulation governs this survey; the applicant should also consult the expiration shown in DELPROS.
Practice Restriction
An expired license does not authorize practice; resume only after renewal.
Reporting Training Applicability
85 Del. Laws, c. 415 §4 states: "This Act applies to all licenses issued or renewed after December 31, 2026." Its new mandatory-reporting training attestation therefore does not apply to issuance or renewal on September 29, 2026.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Removal From Probationary Status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Hearing
After a hearing the Board must be satisfied that prescribed corrective actions and all probation conditions have been met.
Corrective Measures
The Board may impose the disciplinary or corrective measures authorized by the subchapter.
Documentation
Pay the applicable fees and provide Board-required proof of satisfying the conditions; CE proof may be required as appropriate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Reactivation of Inactive License
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Submit 24 hours of CE completed within the preceding two years under rule 10.3.1.
Eligibility
Inactive licensee seeking to resume Delaware practice; notify the Board and submit the DELPROS reactivation service request and fee.
Practice Restriction
Resume practice only after reactivation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Licensure by Reciprocity — AVMA accredited graduates
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited school or college; submit the official transcript directly to the Board. A final-year student may be approved for NAVLE with school verification, but no license is approved until graduation is proven.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Obsolete Rule Cross Reference
Rule 6.1.4 cites §3309 for reciprocity exemptions; the current statute carrying the historical national-examination exception is §3314(b). Apply the statute and retain the Board rule as its implementing score-submission instruction.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Other License
Present proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory, and pay the fee and submit the accepted application under §3314(a).
Unresolved Discipline
Under §3314(e), no license is issued until a pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint is resolved. Application consents to the release and admissibility of the relevant information.
Licensure by Reciprocity — graduates of non AVMA accredited programs
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Possess a Board-approved certificate: ECFVG or its successor, PAVE or its successor, or CVMA Certificate of Qualification or its successor, under rule 6.1.2 and §§3313(a)(1), 3314(c). The Board page requires this evaluation before NAVLE eligibility. These state provisions name certification programs, not their individual examinations.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Obsolete Rule Cross Reference
Rule 6.1.4 cites §3309 for reciprocity exemptions; the current statute carrying the historical national-examination exception is §3314(b). Apply the statute and retain the Board rule as its implementing score-submission instruction.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Other License
Present proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory, and pay the fee and submit the accepted application under §3314(a).
Unresolved Discipline
Under §3314(e), no license is issued until a pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint is resolved. Application consents to the release and admissibility of the relevant information.
Biennial Active License Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Attest to 24 hours of approved continuing education in the preceding two years under rule 10.1.1, subject to its new-license proration and Board hardship extension or waiver provisions; maintain evidence for random audit.
Eligibility
Existing active veterinarian license; submit the biennial renewal application and applicable fee.
Expiration Source Difference
Rule 9.1 states: "Licenses shall expire biennially on every odd numbered year." The lower-ranked Board renewal page states: "Veterinary licenses expire on July 31 of even years (e.g., 2016, 2018)." The regulation governs this survey; the applicant should also consult the expiration shown in DELPROS.
Reporting Training Applicability
85 Del. Laws, c. 415 §4 states: "This Act applies to all licenses issued or renewed after December 31, 2026." Its new mandatory-reporting training attestation therefore does not apply to issuance or renewal on September 29, 2026.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Reinstatement Following Suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Hearing
The Board may reinstate after a hearing when prescribed corrective actions and all conditions of suspension have been satisfied.
Continuing Education
Proof of chapter continuing education compliance may be required as appropriate.
Corrective Measures
The Board may impose the disciplinary or corrective measures authorized by the subchapter; no specific additional examination is identified by §§3312 or 3317(e).
Documentation
Pay the applicable fee and supply the Board-required documentation that all suspension conditions are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Return to Unrestricted Licensure After Voluntary Treatment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Agreement
Comply with the approved treatment agreement and its practice restrictions and reporting requirements.
Eligibility
Existing veterinarian whose practice was restricted during the voluntary treatment option.
Program Completion
Complete the voluntary treatment program before applying for unrestricted licensure under rule 11.9.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Temporary Veterinarian License

First-application temporary veterinarian license while examination or reciprocity licensure is pending, with direct supervision by a Delaware-licensed veterinarian.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Veterinary Medicine · Application information

Temporary License Pending Licensure by Examination — AVMA accredited graduates
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited school or college; submit the official transcript directly to the Board. A final-year student may be approved for NAVLE with school verification, but no license is approved until graduation is proven.
Expiration
The temporary license expires automatically upon examination failure or failure to sit at the earliest opportunity; for reciprocity, upon written notice that the Board proposes denial. Surrender the expired temporary license.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Pending Application
The first application for ordinary veterinarian licensure is pending; applicant is eligible for the examination or is being considered for reciprocity, as appropriate.
Practice Start
Do not begin practicing until the temporary license is issued.
Supervision
Provide a Delaware-licensed veterinarian's letter confirming continuous employment, supervision, monitoring and responsibility. Rule 1.7 requires direct supervision.
Temporary License Pending Licensure by Examination — graduates of non AVMA accredited programs
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Possess a Board-approved certificate: ECFVG or its successor, PAVE or its successor, or CVMA Certificate of Qualification or its successor, under rule 6.1.2 and §§3313(a)(1), 3314(c). The Board page requires this evaluation before NAVLE eligibility. These state provisions name certification programs, not their individual examinations.
Expiration
The temporary license expires automatically upon examination failure or failure to sit at the earliest opportunity; for reciprocity, upon written notice that the Board proposes denial. Surrender the expired temporary license.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Pending Application
The first application for ordinary veterinarian licensure is pending; applicant is eligible for the examination or is being considered for reciprocity, as appropriate.
Practice Start
Do not begin practicing until the temporary license is issued.
Supervision
Provide a Delaware-licensed veterinarian's letter confirming continuous employment, supervision, monitoring and responsibility. Rule 1.7 requires direct supervision.
Temporary License Pending Licensure by Reciprocity — AVMA accredited graduates
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited school or college; submit the official transcript directly to the Board. A final-year student may be approved for NAVLE with school verification, but no license is approved until graduation is proven.
Expiration
The temporary license expires automatically upon examination failure or failure to sit at the earliest opportunity; for reciprocity, upon written notice that the Board proposes denial. Surrender the expired temporary license.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Obsolete Rule Cross Reference
Rule 6.1.4 cites §3309 for reciprocity exemptions; the current statute carrying the historical national-examination exception is §3314(b). Apply the statute and retain the Board rule as its implementing score-submission instruction.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Other License
Present proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory, and pay the fee and submit the accepted application under §3314(a).
Pending Application
The first application for ordinary veterinarian licensure is pending; applicant is eligible for the examination or is being considered for reciprocity, as appropriate.
Practice Start
Do not begin practicing until the temporary license is issued.
Supervision
Provide a Delaware-licensed veterinarian's letter confirming continuous employment, supervision, monitoring and responsibility. Rule 1.7 requires direct supervision.
Unresolved Discipline
Under §3314(e), no license is issued until a pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint is resolved. Application consents to the release and admissibility of the relevant information.
Temporary License Pending Licensure by Reciprocity — graduates of non AVMA accredited programs
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fee through DELPROS; information is subject to Board verification.
Criminal History
No substantially related conviction or pending charge; disclose such records directly through the appropriate authorities. The Board may waive §3313(a)(5) after its statutory review and vote.
Dea Privileges
DEA privileges must not have been restricted or revoked under §3313(a)(3).
Discipline
No disqualifying disciplinary acts, pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint. Disclose administrative penalties and consent agreements under §3313(b); the Board determines their effect.
Discontinued Examination Scores
NBE and CCT were replaced by NAVLE in November 2000. Accepted historic NBE/CCT passing scores are prior evidence conditions rather than currently offered examination leaves.
Education
Possess a Board-approved certificate: ECFVG or its successor, PAVE or its successor, or CVMA Certificate of Qualification or its successor, under rule 6.1.2 and §§3313(a)(1), 3314(c). The Board page requires this evaluation before NAVLE eligibility. These state provisions name certification programs, not their individual examinations.
Expiration
The temporary license expires automatically upon examination failure or failure to sit at the earliest opportunity; for reciprocity, upon written notice that the Board proposes denial. Surrender the expired temporary license.
Historical Score Exception
Under §3314(b), the CCT is excluded before 1996; if the Board-designated examination was not required by Delaware when the applicant became licensed in the jurisdiction from which applying, evidence of the national licensing examinations Delaware required of entry-level licensees at that time suffices. This may excuse a new NAVLE sitting; NAVLE remains the current examination involved in this route.
Impairment
No drug- or alcohol-related impairment limiting safe practice under §3313(a)(4).
License Verification
Submit good-standing verification directly from every jurisdiction in which a license is or has been held.
Obsolete Rule Cross Reference
Rule 6.1.4 cites §3309 for reciprocity exemptions; the current statute carrying the historical national-examination exception is §3314(b). Apply the statute and retain the Board rule as its implementing score-submission instruction.
Older Score Continuing Education
If application is made more than two years after passing the examination, provide 36 hours of continuing education completed within the preceding three years, under rule 6.1.4.1.
Other License
Present proof of current licensure in good standing in another U.S. state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory, and pay the fee and submit the accepted application under §3314(a).
Pending Application
The first application for ordinary veterinarian licensure is pending; applicant is eligible for the examination or is being considered for reciprocity, as appropriate.
Practice Start
Do not begin practicing until the temporary license is issued.
Supervision
Provide a Delaware-licensed veterinarian's letter confirming continuous employment, supervision, monitoring and responsibility. Rule 1.7 requires direct supervision.
Unresolved Discipline
Under §3314(e), no license is issued until a pending disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint is resolved. Application consents to the release and admissibility of the relevant information.

North American Veterinary Licensing Examination

Provider
International Council for Veterinary Assessment (ICVA); delivered at Prometric testing centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination; each question presents a clinical scenario or vignette followed by a question requiring one answer from a list of response options; about 15-20% include graphics such as photos or radiographs. Beginning with the October-November 2026 NAVLE the test is divided into twelve blocks of 30 questions each.
Exam questions
360 multiple-choice questions
Time limit
Around seven and a half (7.5) hours
Passing score
Score report gives a pass or fail designation and a three-digit scaled score
Exam fee
$825 (USD) standard NAVLE fee; $1,220 (USD) international NAVLE fee (standard fee + international fee of $395)
Examination outline
  • Clinical Practice (competency domain; target blueprint 70%) (70%)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Create or update medical records
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Develop a differential diagnosis
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Formulate a diagnostic plan
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Formulate possible differential diagnoses
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret cytologic specimens
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret diagnostic images (e.g., ECG, endoscopy, ultrasound, x-ray)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret findings from laboratory tests (e.g., urine, blood, tissue)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret findings from physical examination
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret findings from postmortem specimen
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret principles of pathophysiology and mechanism of action
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Interpret results of system-specific examination (e.g., ophthalmic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, dental)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Investigate possible exposure of companion animal to toxin
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Investigate possible exposure of food or game animal to toxin
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Observe or interpret an animal’s mental status and other aspects of behavior
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Obtain animal health history from client
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Obtain diagnostic images (e.g., ultrasound, x-ray)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Obtain specimens or samples for laboratory studies (e.g., urine, blood, tissue)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Perform general physical examination
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Perform postmortem examination to determine cause of death
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Perform standard diagnostic tests on samples (e.g., urine, blood, tissue)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Perform system-specific examination (e.g., ophthalmic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, dental)
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Prioritize need for diagnostic procedures considering available resources
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Read and interpret production records or farm-based computer reports to understand herd-level health parameters
    • Data Gathering and Interpretation (target blueprint 35%) — Review animal medical records to determine health status
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Administer a biological or pharmacological agent other than anesthesia, including blood, vaccinations, drugs, and medications
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Administer general anesthesia
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Administer local anesthesia
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Apply a splint, cast or other stabilization device
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Care for wounds or surgical incisions (e.g., suture, dress)
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Determine prognosis
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Establish a rehabilitation plan
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Establish a treatment plan
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Evaluate a treatment outcome
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Formulate or evaluate a behavior modification plan
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Formulate patient/herd/population management and treatment plans (e.g., stall rest, medication, raising curtains in a pig barn, testing feed)
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Perform common therapeutic/surgical procedures (e.g., tissue biopsy, wound drainage)
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Perform major surgical procedures (e.g., abdominal, orthopedic)
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Prescribe a biological or pharmacological agent
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Refer clients to veterinary specialists for further diagnostic studies or treatment
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Synthesize multiple sources of diagnostic information, including local disease prevalence, to determine diagnosis
    • Health Maintenance and Problem Management (listed in the target blueprint as 'Health Maintenance and Prevention', 35%) — Treat minor injuries or trauma (e.g., abrasions, lacerations, eye wounds)
  • Preventive Medicine and Animal Welfare (competency domain; target blueprint 15%) (15%)
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Certify that animals or animal products meet certain standards (e.g., living conditions, sanitation, health or disease status)
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Conduct or oversee an animal welfare audit
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Conduct periodic/annual examinations on client animals and discuss vaccination, deworming, diet, exercise, and other wellness considerations
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Explain to client the components of an animal welfare audit
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Identify and take action on animal welfare problems
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Verify that diseased or infected animals have been managed according to professional or governmental guidelines
    • Animal Welfare Issues and Concerns (target blueprint 6%) — Work with community groups or regulatory bodies to address the ethical treatment, health, and welfare of animals
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Apply isolation or quarantine and/or disinfection measures to own work environment as a means of disease prevention/control
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Ensure proper disposal of biomedical waste
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Evaluate animal environments to identify possible epidemiological problems and public health concerns
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Inform client or community about effective methods for managing animal or human waste
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Inspect practice environment (e.g., clinic, vehicle) to ensure that it is safe and accessible
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Instruct client about methods to humanely terminate diseased animals and dispose of infected carcasses
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Instruct staff, colleagues, or others about proper technique for disposal of biomedical waste
    • Environmental Health and Safety (target blueprint 5%) — Monitor workplace to verify that it complies with hazardous materials requirements
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Apply isolation or quarantine procedures as a means of disease prevention and control
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Collaborate or consult with clients, health professionals, government agencies, or community groups on public health issues such as food safety and zoonotic disease
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Conduct a community education workshop on some topic related to animal or human health
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Consult with community stakeholders about animal population control
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Discuss animal care options with an immunocompromised owner
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Formulate a patient/herd management and/or treatment plan for public health and/or zoonotic disease cases or concerns
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Inform clients or community about prevention and treatment of zoonotic organism exposure
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Inspect food to ensure consumer safety
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Investigate a disease outbreak
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Participate in disease control or eradication program
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Participate in epidemiologic inquiry of a reportable disease by collecting, handling, or transporting specimens/samples
    • Veterinary Public Health (target blueprint 4%) — Report a transboundary or zoonotic disease to state, regional, or national agency
    • Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics (no separate subdomain percentage is published in the target blueprint) — Apply the fundamentals of epidemiology and/or biostatistics
    • Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics (no separate subdomain percentage is published in the target blueprint) — Interpret biostatistical or epidemiologic principles or problems
    • Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics (no separate subdomain percentage is published in the target blueprint) — Investigate epidemiologic problems
  • Communications (competency domain; the target blueprint lists 'Communication' at 8%) (8%)
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Build relationships with junior colleagues or new graduates
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Consult with other veterinarians or veterinary specialists regarding animal care
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Delegate delivery of veterinary care and services to associates or staff
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Deliver verbal case summaries to other veterinarians or members of the health care team
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Describe disaster preparedness plan to coworkers
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Engage regulatory bodies to improve standards of practice or to address other professional issues
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Explain results of research to non-veterinary health workers (e.g., staff, other agencies)
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Guide the work of associates or other staff in the delivery of veterinary services
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Mentor and supervise veterinary and veterinary technician students
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Respond to unprofessional or unethical behavior in others
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Train staff in animal health and care
    • Communications with Veterinary and Other Professionals (target blueprint 'Communication with Veterinary and other Professionals' 3%) — Write a case summary for use by other veterinarians or members of the health care team
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Advise client on health maintenance for herd, flock or individual pet (e.g., husbandry, production management, public health, wellness exams)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Advise client regarding appropriate and inappropriate pharmacy compounding
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Discuss euthanasia with client
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Discuss strategies with producer or client to reduce antibiotic resistance and/or antibiotic residues
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Discuss the limits of legal extra-label drug use with client
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Ensure that client understands the effects of prescribed pharmaceuticals, including chemotherapeutics (e.g., withdrawal time, side effects)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Explain diagnosis and prognosis to clients using lay terminology
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Explain research results to client, describing its implications for animal care
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Help clients differentiate trustworthy from unreliable information (e.g., from Internet or advertisements) to support the care of their animals
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Inform client of bad news (e.g., animal terminal illness, show animal that can’t be bred)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Instruct clients on how to obtain diagnostic information from an animal’s home environment (e.g., sleeping respiratory rate, stool or urine samples)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Instruct clients on methods for isolating and quarantining diseased animals
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Negotiate payment plan with a client
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Obtain informed consent from client
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Provide instruction regarding food safety practices
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Provide verbal instructions to client regarding follow-up care (e.g., medications, wound care, environmental enrichment)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Recommend management options to clients that are consistent with their cultural norms and personal values
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Refer client for grief counseling
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Talk with client to clarify concerns and expectations regarding type and level of care
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Teach client about preventive care (e.g., nutrition, behavior, dental, vaccines, parasites)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Use appropriate communication techniques (e.g., open-ended inquiry, empathy)
    • Communications with Clients (target blueprint 'Communication with Clients' 5%) — Write a summary of animal care instructions for a client
  • Professionalism, Practice Management, and Wellness (competency domain; target blueprint 'Professionalism, Practice Management and Wellness' 7%) (7%)
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Apply appropriate animal restraint
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Describe workings of benefit plan (e.g., retirement, health insurance) to staff
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Develop a budget for own practice or employer
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Develop standard operating procedures (e.g., procedures manual for practice or work environment)
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Evaluate and purchase major medical equipment
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Evaluate and purchase office/practice management software
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Evaluate new medications, products, or treatment procedures to determine suitability for own practice
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Negotiate work or practice arrangements (e.g., compensation, work schedule) with colleagues
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Prepare or update employee handbook
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Purchase expendable supplies (e.g., pharmaceuticals, dressing)
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Review practice management data, including business and financial records
    • Veterinary Practice Management (target blueprint 4%) — Supervise paraprofessional or technical support staff
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Attend a professional development seminar or workshop
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Attend training on emerging technologies in veterinary medicine
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Conduct oneself in a professional, ethical, and legal manner
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Consult reference materials (e.g., journals, online databases, other) to help formulate diagnosis or treatment options
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Encourage veterinarian and support staff wellness
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Exchange new scientific or technical information with other health professionals
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Give a talk at a professional meeting
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Participate in activities of local, national, or international professional association (e.g., state veterinarian association)
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Participate in online professional development activity
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Participate in or conduct an investigation to test a new procedure (e.g., diagnostic, nutritional, medication, surgical)
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Participate in professional development activities (e.g., continuing education, board certification)
    • Professional Development and Lifelong Learning (target blueprint 'Professional Development and Life-Long Learning' 3%) — Read a journal article for professional development
Examination sources