Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Veterinarian in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship • Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,910 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Veterinarian licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Submit the application to Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship~Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $100,910, Veterinarians in Iowa earn 20% below the national median of $125,510. Iowa ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$100,910Hourly estimate
$48.5120% below national median
Difference: -$24,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $100,910 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $117,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $104,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $128,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $119,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $83,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 5 months |
| South Dakota | $89,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship • Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine
Henry A. Wallace Building, 502 E 9th St, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0051
Phone: 5152818617
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $385,010 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $49,700 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Veterinarians in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Veterinarians.
What education do you need to become a Veterinarian in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Veterinarian licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in Iowa is $100,910. Salaries range from $58,560 (10th percentile) to $161,090 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in Iowa earn 20% below the national median of $125,510, with a state median of $100,910.
How many Veterinarians work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 1,180 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Veterinarians in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship / Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine. Review agency details at https://www.iowaagriculture.gov/animalIndustry/IowaVetBoard.
How often do you renew a Veterinarian license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.