Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine -
The ins and outs
A Veterinary Technician license must be renewed each year. In order to renew your license you must have completed 6 hours of continuing education courses or programs related to the treatment and care of patients and be clinical in nature or courses that enhance patient safety such as medical record keeping or OSHA. Below is some background on the agency that oversees your license and your ability to practice as a Licensed Veterinary Technician in Virginia.
The Department of Health Professions serves as the umbrella agency that oversees 13 health regulatory boards in the state of Virginia. The Board of Veterinary Medicine is one of those health regulatory boards.
The Board of Veterinary Medicine is comprised of 5 veterinarians, 1 veterinary technician, and 1 citizen member. Board members are appointed by the Governor, and they serve a 4 year term and no more than 2 successive full terms.
The full Board meets 3 to 4 times a year in Henrico, Virginia to address any concerns that arise. These meetings are open to all and licensees are encouraged to attend. The VALVT strives to have a representative at each meeting to stay ahead of any changes that may affect veterinary technicians.
The mission of the board is to:
Ensure safe and competent patient care by licensing health professionals, enforcing standards of practice, and providing information to health care practitioners and the public.
The practice of veterinary medicine is governed by state and federal laws and board regulations.
The Code of Virginia (Code) contains the state laws. The Code can only be amended through the legislative process which happens each year during the Virginia General Assembly.
Regulations must go through an intensive promulgation process that allows for licensees and the public to make public comments either verbally or electronically. The process includes submitting proposed drafts and receiving approvals at several levels including the governor. This process usually takes 18-24 months before final approval.
To stay informed about these changes you can register with the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall at http://www.townhall.state.va.us/L/publiclogin.cfm
Guidance Documents are issued by the board to provide information or guidance of general applicability to interpret or implement the laws and regulations applicable to the Board. The Board’s guidance documents can be found at http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/vet/vet_guidelines.htm
The Code and regulations applicable to the practice of veterinary medicine can be found at
The VALVT receives questions frequently regarding interpretations of the regulations. The VALVT will always direct you to the Board of Veterinary Medicine website. You may call them directly or email the board for clarification. The Board’s contact information can be found at http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/vet/default.htm
Veterinary Board Newsletters are also a good way to stay informed about any updates or changes. Newsletters are archived on the Board’s website and can be found at http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/vet/vet_newsletters.htm
Rules and Regulations
