CVMB moves forward with RVT test requirement change

The California Veterinary Medical Board (CVMB) officially approved a regulatory change Oct. 22 that will allow veterinary assistants with five years of clinical experience and at least 24 hours of formal education to take the California State Registered Veterinary Technician Exam between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2009.

A California veterinarian must vouch for the applicant before they can take the examination, according to the CVMB. The CVMB passed the temporary change to give experienced technicians the opportunity to become certified and meet a growing demand for RVTs in California.

The California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) remains opposed to the change.

"The CVMA has been long opposed to this regulatory change [and] believes the professional responsibilities of certified RVTs require a combination of education, knowledge and skills," CVMA says in a statement on its Web site about the final ruling.

CVMB officials could not be reached for comment following the final ruling.