Licensure

When students who are enrolled in the Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program reach their fourth year, they may take the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE®).

To register for the NAVLE®, applicants may apply through the Arkansas licensing board, through the state licensing board where they intend to seek licensure, or directly through the International Council for Veterinary Assessment (ICVA). Canadian applicants must apply through the Canadian National Examining Board.

The Path to Veterinary Licensure

Taking the NAVLE® is the first step towards becoming a licensed veterinarian. Each state establishes its own licensing rules, so students and graduates should review the requirements for the state or province where they intend to practice. 

The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) maintains a Board and Agency Directory with contact information and licensure requirements for every US jurisdiction and Canadian provinces.

Licensure in Arkansas

For those students seeking to practice in Arkansas, they should review the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Practice Act before applying for a veterinary medicine license.

This state law regulates the practice of veterinary medicine and outlines the requirements and qualifications for licensure.

To apply for licensure, the following is required:

• Submit an application to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Division, which includes:
  
  • A signed and notarized application
  • A copy of the DVM diploma (or a letter from the CVM stating the applicant is expected to graduate within one year)
  • A certified final veterinary college transcript (fourth-year students must submit when available, prior to the written state examination)
  • The required application fee
• NAVLE® Scores
  • For students and graduates who have successfully passed or attempted the NAVLE®, the scores must be transferred from the AAVSB
  • Students and graduates must submit the NAVLE® 1-page form if they wish to apply to take the NAVLE® through the Arkansas Licensing Board
• Temporary Permit (optional)
  
  • An applicant who has passed the NAVLE® can apply for a temporary permit if they need to practice in Arkansas prior to taking the written state board examination and submit an additional temporary permit fee