Becoming a credentialed veterinary technician in Colorado

Did you graduate from an AVMA-accredited school and then pass your VTNE in 2024 or later? If so, you are in the right place! The next step is to fill out a credential by examination application (link provided below). If you passed the VTNE before 2024, please refer to the information on late credential by exam.

Applicants eligible to obtain a credential by examination are individuals who have recently graduated from an AVMA-accredited school AND passed the VTNE. The credential process includes submission and approval of the following:

  • Completed application for credential by examination (see link below)
  • Verification of graduation from an AVMA accredited Veterinary Technology Program. 
    • If you passed your VTNE in Colorado, CACVT can verify your official transcripts from the AAVSB.
    • If you passed your VTNE in a state other than Colorado, a copy of your transcripts will need to be submitted to the CACVT.
      • Unofficial transcripts can be uploaded into the application
      • Official transcripts can be emailed directly to [email protected]
  • Verification of VTNE pass score
    • If you passed your VTNE in Colorado, the AAVSB will report your VTNE score directly to the CACVT.
    • If you passed your VTNE in a state other than Colorado, your scores will need to be sent to Colorado.
      • AAVSB will submit score reports directly to CACVT if you selected Colorado as the jurisdiction of choice on their VTNE application.
      • If Colorado was not selected as your preferred/primary credentialing jurisdiction on your VTNE application, you must request an online score VAULT transfer through AAVSB HERE. VTNE scores must be received by CACVT before your application is eligible for processing. The jurisdiction to choose when completing your Basic VAULT transfer service application is the Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine.
  • Credentialing fee of $150 for the 2-year credentialing cycle*. This amount may be prorated if you join mid-cycle and is submitted via the application.

Please note: Once your credential is approved, the final step is to apply for registration with DORAOnce you are registered, you are legally allowed to use the titles Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and Veterinary Technician (VT). Those titles and credentials are legally protected in Colorado's Veterinary Practice Act, and unqualified individuals are subject to disciplinary action. For more information on registration, please see your credential confirmation email or visit the State Board of Veterinary Medicine's homepage.

Once all application requirements are fulfilled and approved, you can download a Proof of Credential Certificate to submit with the DORA registration application.

*2-year Credential Cycle: All credentials are valid from July 1 of each EVEN year – June 30 of the following EVEN year, and must be renewed before the expiration date. Please familiarize yourself with CACVT's CE Guidelines, as each RVT is responsible for submission of CE at the time of renewal.

Feel free to contact [email protected] with questions regarding eligibility, the process of becoming a veterinary technician in Colorado, or if you require any assistance.

Credential by Examination Application