Steps to Becoming Licensed to Practice Veterinary Medicine

1. Completion of your DVM degree (or equivalent education) and
2. A passing score on the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination)
3. In addition, some states have additional requirements such as additional clinical competency tests and/or state jurisprudence exam
4. Completion of of licensure forms in the state you want to be licensed in along with payment of licensure fees

Information on the NAVLE

The National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has established a single common examination for veterinary medical licensure in the United State known as the North American Veterinary Medical Licensing Examination (NAVLE).
Cornell students are eligible to take the exam during the fall or spring of their senior year.  (Please note: you must have an expected graduation date no later than ten months from the last date of the applicable testing window)

For detailed information on the NAVLE, go to https://www.icva.net/navle/.

Transferring your NAVLE Scores for State Licensure

If the state you registered to take the NAVLE through was different from the state that you are seeking licensure in, you will be required to have your official scores transferred to the licensing board of the state you want to be licensed in. 
For information on score transfer, please go to http://www.aavsb.org/VIVA/#Transfer

State Specific Veterinary Information

Whether you have already landed your dream job and just need to apply for your veterinary license or you are just starting your job hunt and want to get a feel for the job market and application process in a geographical area of interest, we recommend you visit the American Association of Veterinary State Boards licensing boards site, where state-specific licensing information is available.