Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Veterinarian in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Veterinary Medical Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$158,950 median (27% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 158,950, Veterinarians in California earn 27% above the national median of $125,510. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$158,950Hourly estimate
$76.4227% above national median
Difference: +$33,440
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Veterinarian median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 158,950 |
| #2 | Washington | 155,060 |
| #3 | New Jersey | 148,550 |
| #4 | West Virginia | 134,290 |
| #5 | Vermont | 134,240 |
Nearby States Comparison
Veterinarian licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $158,950 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $102,910 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $121,720 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $132,810 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Veterinary Medical Board
1747 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165155220
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in California?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in California is 158,950.
How does the Veterinarian salary in California compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in California earn 27% above the national median of $125,510, with a state median of 158,950.
How many Veterinarians work in California?
California employs approximately 8,510 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Veterinarians in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Veterinary Medical Board. Review agency details at https://www.vmb.ca.gov/.