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North Carolina Veterinarian — Requirements & Free Practice

US-NC · License preparation

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Limited Veterinary License

Board-restricted license including the NCVDLS employment pathway.

Licensing authority: North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board · Application information

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Annual application and renewal fee.
Continuing education
Twenty approved continuing education hours per year; at most ten hours of self-study, prerecorded or noninteractive online courses. The Board additionally requires two controlled-substance-abuse hours. First renewal is exempt when licensed in the graduation year.
Records
Keep records for the three most recent renewal periods; hardship extensions and exemptions require Board approval.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Limited licensure for an otherwise ineligible applicant licensed elsewhere
Active license
Active substantially equivalent license in another jurisdiction.
Character
Good moral character; consent to the criminal history check and Board review of criminal and disciplinary history.
Citizenship
The Board requires United States citizenship or qualified-alien status under 8 USC 1641(b); North Carolina residency is not required.
Clinical discretion
G.S. 90-187.3(c) allows an oral or practical nationally recognized clinical competency test; it names no exact test, so this slot is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript; AAVSB national score report; verification of every license held, no older than six months; Social Security card; name-change evidence if applicable; ECFVG or PAVE certification when required.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary degree, or a nonaccredited degree with completed ECFVG or PAVE certification under G.S. 90-187(c). State law names no specific examinations within those certification programs; its clinical proficiency and English-language examination slots remain conditions.
Historical score
NBE passing scores are accepted for original licensure from 1969 through November 19, 2000. NAVLE replaced NBE beginning November 20, 2000; the discontinued NBE is prior-score evidence and is not a leaf.
National waiver
G.S. 90-187.3(a) permits issuance without a new national written examination. The route involves currently offered NAVLE passing-score evidence where accepted; historical NBE evidence remains a condition.
Practice
Active, competent practitioner in good standing; practice for three of the previous five years; no disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint; prior discipline must not impair competency.
Scope
Otherwise ineligible for ordinary licensure; Board fixes restrictions. G.S. 90-187.3(d) incorporates all six subsection (a) criteria including a passed state exam; issuance without a new sitting does not remove an involved currently offered passing-score exam.
Timing
Complete all state-exam application materials, including proof of graduation, before admission. Complete the state exam within six months of application. New graduates and applicants practicing less than five years must have passed NAVLE with at least 425.
Restoration after disciplinary suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
Written application showing cause, majority Board approval and compliance with final agency terms and other imposed conditions. Any unnamed assessment in an individual order remains an applicant condition.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Renewal of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board practice requirement
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Period
Within two years after expiration: application, applicable accrued fees and Board-required continuing education.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Good standing and complete cessation of practice; no practice, renewal fee or continuing education while inactive. Board instructions disallow active credentials or continued practice in any jurisdiction. NCVDLS licenses are excluded.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Initial limited licensure under ordinary examination qualifications
Character
Good moral character; consent to the criminal history check and Board review of criminal and disciplinary history.
Citizenship
The Board requires United States citizenship or qualified-alien status under 8 USC 1641(b); North Carolina residency is not required.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript; AAVSB national score report; verification of every license held, no older than six months; Social Security card; name-change evidence if applicable; ECFVG or PAVE certification when required.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary degree, or a nonaccredited degree with completed ECFVG or PAVE certification under G.S. 90-187(c). State law names no specific examinations within those certification programs; its clinical proficiency and English-language examination slots remain conditions.
Historical score
NBE passing scores are accepted for original licensure from 1969 through November 19, 2000. NAVLE replaced NBE beginning November 20, 2000; the discontinued NBE is prior-score evidence and is not a leaf.
Scope
Board restricts scope or areas of practice; limited licensure does not designate a specialty.
Timing
Complete all state-exam application materials, including proof of graduation, before admission. Complete the state exam within six months of application. New graduates and applicants practicing less than five years must have passed NAVLE with at least 425.
Limited licensure for NCVDLS employment
North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)
Application
Complete application and pay the limited-license fee.
Education
Ineligible for ordinary licensure; AVMA-accredited veterinary degree or nonaccredited degree qualifying the graduate to practice in the institution country.
Employment
NCDA&CS position in NCVDLS; Director of Laboratories written statement describes duties and conditional offer and acceptance.
Scope
Restricted to employment duties; expires when employment ends. G.S. 90-187(c), .0301 national-exam clauses and ordinary credentials provisions do not apply.
Standing
No unresolved complaint or proceeding; prior discipline must not impair competence for the restricted position.
Reactivation from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Competency
Board determination of competency; current-year renewal fee and required continuing education earned in the preceding year. NCVDLS licenses are excluded under .0311(d)(5).
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Requalification by credentials after nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years
Board requirement
State-exam retake and license verifications; Board requires recent practice or a national retake.
Period
Nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years; satisfy G.S. 90-187.3 including active substantially equivalent licensure, competency, standing and recent practice.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).
Score evidence
Currently offered NAVLE passing scores remain leaves even if previously passed; historical NBE passing scores are conditions.
Requalification by examination after nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years
Board requirement
Board requires practice in three of the previous five years or a national retake, license verifications, and a state-exam retake.
Period
Nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years; reapply and meet G.S. 90-187.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).
Reinstatement after nonrenewal revocation within three years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board national retake
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Period
Nonrenewal revocation within three years; application, all accrued renewal and reinstatement fees, and proof of the continuing education for each revoked year.
Scope
Limited-license practice restrictions apply; continued NCVDLS employment is required for its special license, which is excluded from inactive-status routes by .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Temporary Practice Permit for Military-Trained Applicants and Military Spouses

Permit under G.S. 93B-15.1(f) while satisfying subsection (a) or (b).

Licensing authority: North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board · Application information

Temporary practice permit for a military spouse
North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)
Duration
Issue within 15 days; valid for the later of one year or the required renewal date, or until full licensure; pending complaints may cause denial or revocation after notice.
Fees
No initial application fee.
License
License in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards.
Pending qualification
Satisfying G.S. 93B-15.1(b); Board determines competency proof. General state-exam demand is retained; alternative statutory competency proof may excuse a sitting.
Temporary practice permit for a military trained applicant
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Issue within 15 days; valid for the later of one year or the occupation renewal date, or until full licensure; pending complaints may cause denial or revocation after notice.
Fees
No initial application fee.
License
License in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards.
Pending qualification
Satisfying G.S. 93B-15.1(a); unnamed testing or equivalent training remains a condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Temporary Permit for the NCVDLS Limited Veterinary License

Restricted permit while completing the North Carolina examination for NCVDLS employment.

Licensing authority: North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board · Application information

NCVDLS temporary permit 120 day extension
North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)
Duration
Initial 60 days; on written request the Board shall renew for 120 days to permit passing the exam.
Eligibility
Meet all NCVDLS limited-license criteria except the state-exam passing score.
Examination
Passing the state exam completes the limited-license qualification; it remains involved despite issuance before passing.
Supervision
North Carolina licensed veterinarian employed by NCDA&CS in NCVDLS; Board time, place and supervision restrictions.
NCVDLS temporary permit
North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)
Duration
Initial 60 days; on written request the Board shall renew for 120 days to permit passing the exam.
Eligibility
Meet all NCVDLS limited-license criteria except the state-exam passing score.
Examination
Passing the state exam completes the limited-license qualification; it remains involved despite issuance before passing.
Supervision
North Carolina licensed veterinarian employed by NCDA&CS in NCVDLS; Board time, place and supervision restrictions.

Veterinary License

License to practice veterinary medicine in North Carolina.

Licensing authority: North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board · Application information

Licensure for applicants licensed in other states
Active license
Active substantially equivalent license in another jurisdiction.
Character
Good moral character; consent to the criminal history check and Board review of criminal and disciplinary history.
Citizenship
The Board requires United States citizenship or qualified-alien status under 8 USC 1641(b); North Carolina residency is not required.
Clinical discretion
G.S. 90-187.3(c) allows an oral or practical nationally recognized clinical competency test; it names no exact test, so this slot is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript; AAVSB national score report; verification of every license held, no older than six months; Social Security card; name-change evidence if applicable; ECFVG or PAVE certification when required.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary degree, or a nonaccredited degree with completed ECFVG or PAVE certification under G.S. 90-187(c). State law names no specific examinations within those certification programs; its clinical proficiency and English-language examination slots remain conditions.
Historical score
NBE passing scores are accepted for original licensure from 1969 through November 19, 2000. NAVLE replaced NBE beginning November 20, 2000; the discontinued NBE is prior-score evidence and is not a leaf.
National waiver
G.S. 90-187.3(a) permits issuance without a new national written examination. The route involves currently offered NAVLE passing-score evidence where accepted; historical NBE evidence remains a condition.
Practice
Active, competent practitioner in good standing; practice for three of the previous five years; no disciplinary proceeding or unresolved complaint; prior discipline must not impair competency.
Timing
Complete all state-exam application materials, including proof of graduation, before admission. Complete the state exam within six months of application. New graduates and applicants practicing less than five years must have passed NAVLE with at least 425.
Licensure with nonaccredited veterinary education and certified equivalence
Certification
Successful completion of ECFVG or PAVE certification; these are certification programs and no named examination identity is inferred from the program name.
Character
Good moral character; consent to the criminal history check and Board review of criminal and disciplinary history.
Citizenship
The Board requires United States citizenship or qualified-alien status under 8 USC 1641(b); North Carolina residency is not required.
Clinical discretion
G.S. 90-187.3(c) allows an oral or practical nationally recognized clinical competency test; it names no exact test, so this slot is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript; AAVSB national score report; verification of every license held, no older than six months; Social Security card; name-change evidence if applicable; ECFVG or PAVE certification when required.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary degree, or a nonaccredited degree with completed ECFVG or PAVE certification under G.S. 90-187(c). State law names no specific examinations within those certification programs; its clinical proficiency and English-language examination slots remain conditions.
Historical score
NBE passing scores are accepted for original licensure from 1969 through November 19, 2000. NAVLE replaced NBE beginning November 20, 2000; the discontinued NBE is prior-score evidence and is not a leaf.
National waiver
G.S. 90-187.3(b) permits the Board to waive a new national written examination; Board implementing instructions require an accepted NAVLE or historical NBE score.
Timing
Complete all state-exam application materials, including proof of graduation, before admission. Complete the state exam within six months of application. New graduates and applicants practicing less than five years must have passed NAVLE with at least 425.
Initial licensure by examination
Character
Good moral character; consent to the criminal history check and Board review of criminal and disciplinary history.
Citizenship
The Board requires United States citizenship or qualified-alien status under 8 USC 1641(b); North Carolina residency is not required.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript; AAVSB national score report; verification of every license held, no older than six months; Social Security card; name-change evidence if applicable; ECFVG or PAVE certification when required.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary degree, or a nonaccredited degree with completed ECFVG or PAVE certification under G.S. 90-187(c). State law names no specific examinations within those certification programs; its clinical proficiency and English-language examination slots remain conditions.
Historical score
NBE passing scores are accepted for original licensure from 1969 through November 19, 2000. NAVLE replaced NBE beginning November 20, 2000; the discontinued NBE is prior-score evidence and is not a leaf.
Timing
Complete all state-exam application materials, including proof of graduation, before admission. Complete the state exam within six months of application. New graduates and applicants practicing less than five years must have passed NAVLE with at least 425.
Licensure by endorsement for a military spouse
North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)
Competency
Board-determined competency proof, such as continuing education or practice in two of the previous five years. Its universal state-exam instruction is retained as the identified examination; statutory alternative competency proof may excuse sitting it.
Fees
No initial application fee; third-party actual costs may remain.
License
Current license in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent or greater requirements.
Standing
Good standing, no discipline, no disqualifying act and no pending complaint.
Licensure based on equivalent military training and experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board instruction
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Discipline
No disqualifying act or pending complaint.
Experience
Active occupational practice for two of the preceding five years; relevant military experience is credited.
Fees
No initial application fee; third-party actual costs may remain.
Military specialty
Awarded military occupational specialty, with substantially equivalent or greater training, testing or equivalent training and experience, and occupational performance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Annual application and renewal fee.
Continuing education
Twenty approved continuing education hours per year; at most ten hours of self-study, prerecorded or noninteractive online courses. The Board additionally requires two controlled-substance-abuse hours. First renewal is exempt when licensed in the graduation year.
Records
Keep records for the three most recent renewal periods; hardship extensions and exemptions require Board approval.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Restoration after disciplinary suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
Written application showing cause, majority Board approval and compliance with final agency terms and other imposed conditions. Any unnamed assessment in an individual order remains an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Renewal of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board practice requirement
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Period
Within two years after expiration: application, applicable accrued fees and Board-required continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Good standing and complete cessation of practice; no practice, renewal fee or continuing education while inactive. Board instructions disallow active credentials or continued practice in any jurisdiction. NCVDLS licenses are excluded.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Reactivation from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Competency
Board determination of competency; current-year renewal fee and required continuing education earned in the preceding year. NCVDLS licenses are excluded under .0311(d)(5).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Requalification by credentials after nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years
Board requirement
State-exam retake and license verifications; Board requires recent practice or a national retake.
Period
Nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years; satisfy G.S. 90-187.3 including active substantially equivalent licensure, competency, standing and recent practice.
Score evidence
Currently offered NAVLE passing scores remain leaves even if previously passed; historical NBE passing scores are conditions.
Requalification by examination after nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years
Board requirement
Board requires practice in three of the previous five years or a national retake, license verifications, and a state-exam retake.
Period
Nonrenewal revocation exceeding three years; reapply and meet G.S. 90-187.
Reinstatement after nonrenewal revocation within three years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board national retake
{"source":{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-10-06","locator":"Revoked more than two but less than three years","name":"NCVMB - Licensing and Registration","quote":"REVOKED MORE THAN 2 YEARS LESS BUT LESS THAN 3 YEARS Reinstatement Requirements Submittal of Reinstatement application Reinstatement Fee: VETERINARIANS - $510 + $100 reinstatement fee ($610 total) VETERINARY TECHNICIANS - $100 + $100 reinstatement fee ($200 total) VETERINARIANS ONLY: Have practiced at least three (3) of the five (5) years immediately preceding filing this application OR retake the National Exam. Continuing Education Credits: VETERINARIANS - 60 hours total required (20 CE hours per year) VETERINARY TECHNICIANS - 24 hours total required (12 CE hours per renewal cycle)","sourceFile":{"sha256":"816173def6d20c493792d9970c711311da833eacf408b45560df6837d7811ee1"},"url":"https://www.ncvmb.org/professional.php?section=licensing","version":"Board licensing instructions pinned September 1, 2026"},"value":"The Board page requires three of the last five years of practice OR a national retake for revocation more than two but less than three years. G.S. 90-187.9(a) defines the controlling conditions without requiring that exam; the additional Board demand remains a condition."}
Period
Nonrenewal revocation within three years; application, all accrued renewal and reinstatement fees, and proof of the continuing education for each revoked year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Temporary Permit to Practice Veterinary Medicine

Supervised permit pending examination or for a nonresident licensed veterinarian.

Licensing authority: North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board · Application information

Nonresident 60 day temporary permit
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript, current license verification, identity and applicable name-change evidence.
Duration
No more than 60 days; reissue requires a new application and Board discretion.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary school graduate under .0305(b).
License
Nonresident holding a valid active veterinary license in another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction examination is a condition.
Restrictions
Board time, place and supervision restrictions; government regulatory work prohibited.
Supervision
Board-approved active North Carolina licensed veterinarian in good standing.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Nonresident 60 day temporary permit reissue
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Degree-conferred transcript, current license verification, identity and applicable name-change evidence.
Duration
No more than 60 days; reissue requires a new application and Board discretion.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary school graduate under .0305(b).
License
Nonresident holding a valid active veterinary license in another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction examination is a condition.
Restrictions
Board time, place and supervision restrictions; government regulatory work prohibited.
Supervision
Board-approved active North Carolina licensed veterinarian in good standing.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-29.

Temporary permit pending examination
Duration
Expires the day after notice of the first examination results after issuance; no ordinary renewal; discretionary reissue on a new application.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary school graduate under .0305(b).
Pending application
State-exam application and required documents complete; supervised practice while the exam is pending. Passing-score NAVLE evidence and the pending state exam remain involved although permit issuance precedes the state exam.
Restrictions
Board time, place and supervision restrictions; no government regulatory work such as health certificates, Coggins testing or rabies vaccination.
Supervision
Approved active, good-standing North Carolina supervisors; substitute supervision when unavailable.
Temporary permit pending examination reissue
Duration
Expires the day after notice of the first examination results after issuance; no ordinary renewal; discretionary reissue on a new application.
Education
AVMA-accredited veterinary school graduate under .0305(b).
Pending application
State-exam application and required documents complete; supervised practice while the exam is pending. Passing-score NAVLE evidence and the pending state exam remain involved although permit issuance precedes the state exam.
Restrictions
Board time, place and supervision restrictions; no government regulatory work such as health certificates, Coggins testing or rabies vaccination.
Supervision
Approved active, good-standing North Carolina supervisors; substitute supervision when unavailable.

North Carolina Examination (Veterinary Medicine)

Provider
North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board; AAVSB/CMS TESTWise online delivery
Format
Online open book; 30 true/false and 20 multiple-choice questions
Exam questions
50
Time limit
30 minutes; no pause option
Passing score
75
Exam fee
Board application $250; CMS TESTWise purchase $50
Examination outline
  • North Carolina Veterinary Practice Act (G.S. Chapter 90, Article 11)
  • 21 NCAC 66 - Veterinary Medical Board
Examination sources

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