All States and the District of Columbia require that veterinarians be licensed before they can practice. The only exemptions are for veterinarians working for some Federal agencies and some State governments. The NBE comprises 400 multiple choice questions covering all aspects of veterinary medicine and takes one day to complete. Many States permit candidates to take the NBE in their third year of veterinary school, but those who pass must still graduate with the D.V.M. before they can be licensed. The majority of States also require candidates to pass a State jurisprudence examination, covering State laws and regulations.
Some States also do additional testing on clinical competency.
There are very few reciprocal agreements between States, making it difficult for a veterinarian to practice in a new State without first taking another State examination. Thirty-nine States have continuing education requirements for licensed veterinarians. Requirements differ by State, and may involve attending a class or otherwise demonstrating knowledge of recent medical and veterinary advances. Most veterinarians begin as employees or partners in established practices. Despite the substantial financial investment in equipment, office space, and staff, many veterinarians with experience set up their own practice or purchase an established one.