Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Veterinary Medicine Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$129,510 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 129,510, Veterinarians in Pennsylvania earn 3% above the national median of $125,510. Pennsylvania ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$129,510Hourly estimate
$62.263% above national median
Difference: +$4,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $129,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $131,330 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $148,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $125,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $125,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $134,290 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $123,140 | Degree required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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 State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Veterinary Medicine Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837134
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Veterinarians.
What education do you need to become a Veterinarian in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Veterinarian licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in Pennsylvania is 129,510. Salaries range from $71,160 (10th percentile) to $212,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in Pennsylvania earn 3% above the national median of $125,510, with a state median of 129,510.
How many Veterinarians work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 3,220 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Veterinary Medicine Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/VeterinaryMedicine/Pages/default.aspx.