How to Become a Vet Tech in Florida

Veterinary technicians are responsible for assisting veterinarians in caring for animals. Their duties go beyond a traditional vet assistant though, since they have the ability to examine animals, administer medications (with the vet’s supervision/approval) and provide treatment. The state of Florida requires vet techs to be licensed, which is why there are many steps involved in how to become a vet tech in Florida.

Instructions

1. Attend an accredited vet tech school. To be licensed in Florida as a vet tech, you must graduate from a vet tech program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). There are three programs in Florida that have this accreditation; Miami Dade, St. Petersburg College and Brevard Community College. Each offers a two year program that culminates with an associate of applied science degree. St. Petersburg does also offer a four year program, which allows veterinary technicians to expand their knowledge and skills while obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

2. Apply for state certification through the Florida Veterinary Medical Association. After completing your vet tech program, you can apply for certification through the state of Florida. This requires you to submit an application, a $50 fee, official transcripts noting your degree and a recent photo of yourself. You must also include a reference form, completed by someone who can attest to your character and your ability to represent the veterinary technician profession in an appropriate manner.

3. Register for the state exam. The application form provides a section for registering for the Florida Practical Exam (FPE), which is one of two exams you are required to take to become a vet tech in Florida. The exam is offered twice a year on the third Friday of January and June, and it consists of 60 multiple choice questions.

4. Sign up for the national certification exam. Florida is different from most states since it requires you to take and pass both a state and national exam in order to become certified. The Veterinary Technician National Exam is the national exam required, and it is offered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. Most students take it in Florida at the same time as the FPE, since they are offered on the same day. However, you do have the option to travel out of state to take the national test as long as you submit your scores to the Florida Veterinary Medical Association to get certified.

5. Remain certified and current in the field of veterinary technology. After you become certified as a vet tech in Florida you can begin working in animal hospitals or veterinary clinics providing treatment and services. However, you will need to get recertified every two years through continuing education or retesting with the certification exams.

Tips & Warnings

• If you currently hold a license in another state as a vet tech, you can become certified in Florida by taking the Florida Practical Exam and the Veterinary Technician National Exam.

• You must be 18 or older to take the Florida Practical Exam and become certified as a vet tech in the state.

• Failing to pass both certification exams (Florida and the national test) will result in you not being able to obtain your license in the state of Florida as a veterinary technician.

Resources

• Florida Veterinary Technician Association
• National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America
• Florida Veterinary Medical Association