The Massachusetts Veterinary Technician Association (MVTA) is pushing for legislation that would require technician licensure throughout the state. Technicians who have not graduated from an American Veterinary Medical Association accredited veterinary technology program would be able to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) in Massachusetts for a period of time. But the goal is to require all technicians graduate from an accredited program. The state is one of 12 that doesn't require licensure for technicians. The legislation to change that is still in the drafting stages.

Cate Daniels, VTNE program administrator with the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB), says there's a desire at the AAVSB, as well as the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America, to standardize technician requirements across the country. "A license gives the state control to protect the public and ensures that technicians have the certification and level of education to perform the job," she says.

Technician credentialing requirements vary by state. To find out the rules that apply to you, contact your state veterinary technician association or visit http://aavsb.org/DLR/.