Rhode Island Veterinary License Guide

Pay $580 to the State Board.

• Licensing Fee: $580

It will cost an additional $5 to get licensed in Rhode Island due to:

• Background check: $5

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Proof of Graduation:

Ask your AVMA accredited veterinary school to submit your transcript & diploma directly to the Rhode Island Board of Veterinary Medicine.

• Foreign Veterinary Graduates: Vets educated outside the US will need to complete the certificate program offered by the ECFVG OR PAVE.

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Exam Requirements:

NAVLE: New vets applying for a license in Rhode Island will need to pass the NAVLE examination and have their results submitted directly to the Rhode Island Board.

Jurisprudence Exam: Applicants in Rhode Island will also need to complete a Veterinary Jurisprudence Exam covering Rhode Island's veterinary practice act.

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Required Documents:

• Submit a 2” x 2” photograph of your face along with your application.

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Veterinarians who are already licensed in another state, US territory, Canadian province, or Washington D.C. must submit a verification of licensure for any licenses currently or previously held, including any disciplinary action taken against any of your licenses by a state veterinary board.

AAVSB Vault Service: You can have the AAVSB transfer your NAVLE test results, verification of licensure for any other veterinary licenses, and letters of good standing for a fee of $99.

The Rhode Island Board does not specify how long it takes to process license applications. Ensure your application is not missing any documents to avoid delays.

Please print the Rhode Island Veterinary License Application and mail with all supporting to:

Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Veterinary Medicine Room 1043 Capitol Hill Providence, RI 02908-5097

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Renewal Fee

Pay $580 to the Rhode Island Board.

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When do I need to renew my license?

Renewal Date: May 1st every even numbered year

You are exempt from CE requirements until the date of the next renewal cycle if you were initially licensed after the May 1st renewal date.

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How long is a Rhode Island Veterinary License valid for?

Rhode Island veterinary licenses are valid for 2 years.

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24 Hours of CE are required every 2 year renewal period.

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What forms of CE qualify in Rhode Island?

Approved programs include those offered or approved by the RI VMA, AVMA, RACE, other state boards, and approved veterinary schools.

• A maximum of 4 hours of CE may be performed remotely or online.

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Continuing Education Verification & Documentation

Rhode Island does not verify your CE annually, but it is recommended you keep a record of your CE for 4 years as the Rhode Island Board of Veterinary Medicine may randomly audit you.

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You can quickly change your personal info, including last name or address, online by clicking this link.

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Unfortunately, Rhode Island does not offer temporary veterinary licenses that allow relief veterinarians to practice in state for a limited duration.

Rhode Island Board of Veterinary Medicine

Phone: (401) 222-5960

Email: doh.elicense@health.ri.gov

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Mailing Address

Board of Examiners in Veterinary Medicine, Room 104

3 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908-5097

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