Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Veterinarian in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Veterinary Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$98,210 median (22% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 98,210, Veterinarians in Kentucky earn 22% below the national median of $125,510. Kentucky ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$98,210Hourly estimate
$47.2222% below national median
Difference: -$27,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#44 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $98,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $119,230 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $123,140 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $134,290 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $124,110 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $125,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $119,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $128,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Veterinary Examiners
107 Corporate Drive, Second Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027820273ext230
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in Kentucky?
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 exams are required for Veterinarians in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Veterinarians.
What education do you need to become a Veterinarian in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Veterinarian licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in Kentucky is 98,210. Salaries range from $50,700 (10th percentile) to $178,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in Kentucky earn 22% below the national median of $125,510, with a state median of 98,210.
How many Veterinarians work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 1,250 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Veterinary Examiners. Review agency details at https://kybve.com/.