Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$125,420 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 125,420, Veterinarians in Tennessee earn 0% below the national median of $125,510. Tennessee ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$125,420Hourly estimate
$60.300% above national median
Difference: -$90
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $125,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $98,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $124,110 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $123,430 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $115,220 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $98,060 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $101,300 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $100,820 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $119,640 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 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
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6155323202
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Veterinarians.
What education do you need to become a Veterinarian in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Veterinarian licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in Tennessee is 125,420. Salaries range from $83,730 (10th percentile) to $169,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in Tennessee earn 0% below the national median of $125,510, with a state median of 125,420.
How many Veterinarians work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 1,590 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.