Show proof of graduation from a veterinary technician program accredited by either the American Veterinary Medical Association or the state of California. The Department of Consumer Affairs publishes a list of recognized schools on its website. A diploma from an approved institution serves as sufficient evidence. You may provide your academic transcript in lieu of the actual degree if it is equivalent.
If you were trained on the job, the state veterinary medical board offers an alternate route of eligibility for applicants who have not completed a formal program but can demonstrate knowledge and experience. Ask a veterinarian licensed in California who has supervised your work to sign a task list, which is a state-issued form documenting your completion of three years of clinical experience in all duties relevant to the job. You must also provide transcripts, course catalog descriptions, syllabuses and proof of attendance totaling 300 hours in all college courses required.
As a candidate who already has an out-of-state license, you merely need to submit evidence from your home state that you have passed either a state or national board exam. Acquire letters of good standing from every state regulatory body where you held licensure. Have an AVMA-endorsed veterinarian who has supervised your work in the past to sign a task list detailing three years of clinical practice.
All applicants must be fingerprinted and must undergo background checks regarding past criminal actions or discipline against a professional license. As of 2010, Live Scan conducts all criminal record investigations for the RVTC. Go to the California veterinary medical board's website to obtain the proper form. Submit this request alongside a letter to the committee explaining any adverse history, accompanied by applicable arrest and court documents.
To take the licensing exam, send a packet comprised of the above documents, the test application, a photo of your face and all pertinent fees to the RVTC. If you meet all of the criteria, the committee will contact the testing vendor within 60 days to notify them of your candidacy. The vendor will then mail a booklet to you with a list of approved testing locations and contact information. Call the one nearest you to schedule a time for you to take the exam. The structure of the test changes every May 1st and November 1st; if you fail, you must wait until the next alteration date to reapply.
If you earn a passing score on the examination, you will receive an application for initial registration as a veterinary technician, Return this form with the appropriate fee and you will be licensed to practice in the state of California.