Veterinary technicians assist in the medical care of pets and other animals.
Veterinary technicians are typically employed by private practice veterinarians, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). They are permitted to perform specific assigned tasks, such as conducting medical tests, taking tissue, blood, urine or stool samples, helping with dental or nail care, and administering medications, under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. All states, including Georgia, require veterinary technicians to be licensed by the State Board of Veterinarians.
Education
Candidates may apply for a Georgia veterinary technician license upon graduation from a school or college that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), according to the Georgia Board of Veterinarians. Most entry-level veterinary technicians graduate with a two-year associate degree from an AVMA-accredited community college program, according to the BLS. Coursework typically involves classroom instruction, clinical practice and laboratory work involving live animals. Some students may choose to pursue a traditional four-year degree in veterinary technology.
Examination
All candidates for licensure as a veterinary technician in the state of Georgia must take and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), according to the Georgia Board of Veterinarians. The VTNE is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).Candidates must have graduated from an AVMA-accredited program in order to sit for the examination. The AAVSB offers an online practice test to help familiarize candidates with the scope of the examination. As of June 2010, the cost of the practice test was $45.
Reciprocity
The Georgia Board of Veterinarians recognizes the license of veterinary technicians from other states. Candidates wishing to practice in the state of Georgia must have their verification of licensure sent directly to the Georgia Board of Veterinarians by the originating state. The license must be current, valid and in good standing in the original state.
Documents
All candidates for licensure as a veterinary technician in the state of Georgia must submit a completed, notarized application along with a recent photograph and the appropriate application fee. As of June 2010, the application fee was $50. Candidates who have been charged or convicted of criminal activity and those who have been sanctioned by another state's veterinary licensing board may require additional documentation, according to the Georgia Board of Veterinarians.
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