Grandfathered Registration

Non graduates or On the Job Trained Technicians (OJT) writing the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) for registration/membership of an association.

The following is for information purposes only, inquire to the applicable provincial AHT/VT association for further direction. CAAHTT does not register AHT/RVT/VTs.

Only graduates of a formal course of study of AHT/VT may write the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Some provincial AHT/VT associations have included in their bylaws a ‘grandfather clause’ which allowed persons working as an AHT/VT without a diploma to write the VTNE. The ‘grandfather clause’ in most of the provincial AHT/VT associations has lapsed, and on the job trained technicians (OJT’s) are not eligible to write the VTNE. If they are allowed to write the VTNE, membership will only apply to that particular association. Requirements of reciprocity (transfer of membership) usually include one or both of the following; having passed the VTNE and being a graduate of a recognized AHT/VT course. Completion of a zoology or biology course will not gain AHT/VT status.

Rules regarding certification and AHT/VT education serve a very important purpose. The AHT/VT profession has successfully evolved to the point where only recognized graduates are eligible to work as technicians. The need for this is obvious. The profession is changing and advancing every day. The level of training for AHT/VT’s is increasing, and the need for highly trained individuals that have superior knowledge and continuing education of all facets of the animal health field is necessary.

With any profession, especially in the medical field, it is expected that an individual will be suitably trained. The bar that has been set for the AHT/VT profession is formal (approved/accredited) education. Likewise are registered nurses, dental technicians, laboratory technicians, radiology technicians and any other professional trained in activities related to human or animal medicine. Education is one of the components that make a great professional, and is one of the most important steps to a successful career.

There is an awareness of some OJT’s working in practice. Promotion of the AHT/VT profession assists the public to make educated decisions on their animal care and to insist that only trained and registered personnel work with their animals. That coupled with legislation, (most veterinary acts include AHT/VT’s) ensures that veterinarians hire only trained personnel. They are liable for any staff in their employ.

Recognized AHT/VT programs in Canada are found on the web site under career information. If education at a formal program is not possible, there are two colleges in Canada that offers an accredited distance education program for VT’s. The link is found on the CAAHTT web site under AHT/VT programs. The website www.avma.org will have information and links to distance education programs in the U.S. You should inquire of the provincial association where you intend to practice to ensure that any program you do take will be recognized for membership.

  2008-02-12