Veterinary technician training is not for everyone, but for many that love animals it could not be a more perfect job. You may expect to spend a minimum of two years in training. Most people acquire training at local community colleges. However, you can also obtain part of your training with online courses and finish up lab courses at a college too. Much of the education requirements entail science and math courses and a desire to work with animals is also recommended. A lot of the schooling involves hands-on training with animals to complete the courses.
Look for veterinary technician training with an accredited school that has been accepted with the American Veterinary Medical Association. There can be some variations in training requirements and certification between states. This is something to verify when planning your training and what state you wish to work in. Several states use the National Veterinary Technician examination when issuing veterinary technician licenses. These types of licenses allow you to work in clinics and animals hospitals. If your career goal runs along the lines of focusing on work within research facilities, training requirements will also include coursework in facility management, animal health and welfare and animal husbandry. When pursuing veterinary work at research facilities you need to study at a program that has been accredited with the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science.
Students engaging in veterinary technician training must complete certification, register, and become licensed after training to work in this field. Even though state requirements can vary somewhat, most states will accept passing examination scores from another state provided they both have the same test. Certification examinations are usually given with the National Veterinary Technician test. Students must complete three sections on the test, which include practical applications, written questions and an oral segment. If further advancement in a veterinary career is of interest, you can attend four years of training for a job as a veterinary technologist or complete your degree to become a licensed veterinarian.