Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian in Texas, 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 Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Some veterinarians, after additional training and education, become American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Board certified in their chosen field.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- certified in their chosen field
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$121,220 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for Veterinarian licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $121,220, Veterinarians in Texas earn 3% below the national median of $125,510. Texas ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$121,220Hourly estimate
$58.283% below national median
Difference: -$4,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $121,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $96,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $100,820 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 21 years |
| Louisiana | $120,630 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $126,710 | Degree required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 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
Official website verified
Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
1801 Congress Ave, Ste. 8.800, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5123057555
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $82,170 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $203,450 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Veterinarian licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Veterinarian salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in Texas is $121,220. Salaries range from $73,180 (10th percentile) to $209,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in Texas earn 3% below the national median of $125,510, with a state median of $121,220.
How many Veterinarians work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 5,940 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.veterinary.texas.gov/index.php.
How often do you renew a Veterinarian license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.