Veterinarian Licensure Application Process

Applicants Currently Licensed in Other Jurisdictions

These instructions are for qualified individuals to apply for a license to practice veterinary medicine in the state of North Dakota. The Board holds examinations two times per year in Bismarck, ND at the state capitol building. You must be present. You may apply for a temporary permit to practice in the state until the next examination is given.

• You must complete the North Dakota state application.
• All requested information must be provided and the state license application must be notarized.
• If you have a documented disability covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act for which you need accomodations, please contact the Board Office 30 days prior to the application deadline.
• Your North Dakota application must be accompanied by:
  • Document(s) verifying your degree:
    • A copy of your diploma conferring your veterinary degree or, an official copy of your transcripts.
    • If you are a graduate from a non-accredited College of Veterinary Medicine, a copy of your ECFVG or PAVE certificate.
  • A letter of verification from the state boards where you now hold, or have held a veterinary license. Download the form here: Verification of Licensure Form. Send this form to the appropriate licensing agencies.
  • Your NBE/CCT or NAVLE score(s) must be transferred to the North Dakota Board by the Veterinary Information Verifying Agency (VIVA) found on the AAVSB website at www.aavsb.org. Currently this on-line fee is $80.00.
  • A recent photo of yourself.
  • A check or money order for the application fee (currently $50.00) and the renewal fee (currently $60, paid annually on June 30) for a total of $110.00.
• You may also apply for a temporary permit (currently $25.00) to practice veterinary medicine until the next state board examination. Please refer to the Veterinary Temporary Permit Application Process.
• The North Dakota examination will consist of a written portion covering North Dakota laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine and an oral interview with the Board. This is an open book exam. A copy of the North Dakota Board Rules and Practice Act will be mailed to you when the Board receives your completed application. After each candidate meets with the board, the candidates will meet with USDA officials for a review of federal accreditation policies and procedures. You may also download the Practice Act and Board Rules. The links are provided on this website.

Please contact the Board office if you have any questions.

Updated 2/6/2012