How to Get Certified as a Veterinary Assistant

Many people who love animals and want to work in the field of animal care choose to become certified as a veterinary assistant. This occupation requires far less school and training than an actual veterinarian, which is why it is a popular choice for many people.

1. Decide what type of certification you want to hold as a veterinary assistant. You can choose a general certificate, or become certified as a veterinary technician or technologist. Though these three job titles are used interchangeably, they actually differ in the duties that can be performed as well as the rate of pay.


2. Enroll in a local technical school to become certified as a veterinary assistant. Most schools offer a one to two year program that prepares you for the certification examination that allows you to work as a vet assistant in your state.


3. Take a training program online if you are unable to attend a school full-time. This is a great alternative for those that are currently working in an unrelated field but wish to become an assistant in a veterinary clinic. There are programs that last 90 to 180 days, and many can prepare you for the exam just as enrolling in a technical school can.


4. Take the certification examination once you have completed your classes or online training. The date, time and fees for the exam depend on the state in which you are taking it. You may have to contact the state board of examiners in order to arrange a time and location for you to take the exam, especially if you did your training and preparation online.