Vet Tech Programs in Georgia: Complete 2027 Guide to Becoming an LVT
Explore accredited vet tech programs in Georgia, admission requirements, certification steps, and career opportunities to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).
Reviewed by: vettechprograms.org
Last updated: October 2026
What You Need to Know First
Georgia is a strong state for veterinary technology education, with multiple AVMA-CVTEA-accredited programs, a large veterinary employment market, and opportunities in companion-animal, emergency, specialty, equine, agricultural, laboratory, and research settings.
To become a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) in Georgia, applicants generally need to graduate from an AVMA-approved veterinary technician program, pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), pass the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam, and complete the Georgia licensing application.
This guide covers Georgia vet tech programs, licensing requirements, examinations, continuing education, salary data, scope of practice, and the practical factors students should consider before choosing a program.
Quick Decision Guide
| Your Situation | Best Starting Point |
|---|---|
| Near Atlanta, want campus experience | Compare Athens Technical College and Gwinnett Technical College, along with other Georgia programs |
| In rural or coastal Georgia | Compare programs by clinical-site requirements, commute, and availability of local hands-on training |
| Want a four-year degree | Consider Fort Valley State University’s Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology |
| Want a traditional associate degree | Compare Georgia’s AVMA-CVTEA-accredited AAS programs |
| Need maximum flexibility | Consider an AVMA-CVTEA-accredited distance program that accepts Georgia residents |
| Want the strongest clinical fit | Compare VTNE outcomes, clinical training, externship structure, program length, and location |
At a Glance: Georgia LVT Facts
| Factor | Georgia Details |
|---|---|
| Credential Title | Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) |
| Licensing Board | Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine |
| Licensure Required? | Yes — Georgia licenses veterinary technicians and regulates the use and practice of the profession |
| Primary Exam | VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination) |
| Additional Exam | Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam |
| Administered By | VTNE: AAVSB; Georgia Law Exam: Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine |
| CE Required for Renewal? | Yes — 11 hours per biennium, including 1 hour of Georgia laws, rules and professionalism (LEAP) |
| License Term | Biennial — expires December 31 of even-numbered years |
| Initial Application Fee | $50 |
| AVMA-CVTEA Programs | Multiple Georgia programs; verify current accreditation before enrolling |
| Salary | Georgia median: about $43,060 annually, May 2025 BLS data |
| National Job Growth | 9% projected growth for veterinary technologists and technicians, 2025–2035 |
Always verify current licensing fees, CE requirements, examination procedures, and program accreditation directly with the Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine, AVMA-CVTEA, and AAVSB before making enrollment decisions. Requirements and program statuses can change.
Why Georgia Is a Strong State for Vet Tech Careers
Georgia has a diverse veterinary employment market that includes companion-animal practices, emergency hospitals, specialty medicine, mixed-animal practices, equine care, agricultural veterinary services, biomedical research, and academic veterinary medicine.
The Atlanta metropolitan area offers a wide range of veterinary practice settings. Students and experienced LVTs can find opportunities in general practice, emergency medicine, specialty hospitals, corporate veterinary practices, and other clinical environments. The larger metropolitan market also gives technicians more opportunities to compare employers and specialties.
Georgia has meaningful large-animal and agricultural opportunities. Outside the largest metropolitan areas, veterinary practices may serve livestock, equine, farm, and mixed-animal clients. Students interested in large-animal medicine should compare programs based on their clinical partnerships and opportunities for species-specific experience.
The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine contributes to Georgia’s veterinary education and clinical ecosystem. Its DVM program is separate from veterinary technician education, but the Athens veterinary community provides another important clinical environment for people pursuing veterinary careers.
Georgia’s veterinary market is geographically diverse. Career opportunities differ between Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Savannah, Macon, Columbus, and smaller communities. Students should consider both the type of veterinary medicine they want to practice and the location where they expect to work after graduation.
How to Become a Licensed Veterinary Technician in Georgia
Step 1 — Finish High School or Earn Your GED
Most veterinary technology programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, although admission requirements vary by institution.
Courses such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, and other science subjects can provide useful preparation for veterinary technology coursework.
Before applying, gaining hands-on experience at a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, farm, or other animal-care setting can also help you understand the demands of the profession. Some programs may have their own experience or prerequisite requirements.
Step 2 — Graduate from an AVMA-Accredited Program
Georgia’s current veterinary technician licensing rule requires applicants to graduate from a veterinary technician program approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine states that it will review other programs on an individual basis.
For the standard pathway, an AVMA-CVTEA-accredited veterinary technology program is the clearest option because graduates are prepared for the VTNE and the Georgia licensing process.
The AVMA maintains the current accreditation directory. Always verify the program’s current accreditation status before enrolling because accreditation status can change.
Typical veterinary technology coursework includes:
- Veterinary anatomy and physiology
- Veterinary medical terminology
- Pharmacology
- Anesthesia
- Surgical nursing
- Diagnostic imaging
- Clinical laboratory procedures
- Veterinary pathology and diseases
- Emergency and critical care
- Dentistry
- Animal handling and nursing
- Practice management
- Client communication
Most associate-level veterinary technology programs take approximately 2–3 years, while some bachelor’s programs take four years.
Students who want to begin preparing for the national examination during their program may also benefit from a dedicated VTNE study resource.
Step 3 — Complete Supervised Clinical Training
AVMA-CVTEA-accredited veterinary technology programs include hands-on clinical education. Distance programs also require students to complete practical clinical requirements; online coursework does not eliminate the need for hands-on training.
Clinical training can involve:
- Patient handling and restraint
- Surgical preparation
- Anesthesia monitoring
- Diagnostic imaging
- Laboratory procedures
- Blood and specimen collection
- Dental procedures
- Emergency and critical care
- Post-operative patient care
- Client communication
Clinical requirements vary by program, so ask each school how clinical placements are arranged.
Students should specifically ask:
- Does the program arrange clinical sites?
- Can clinical work be completed near my home?
- Which species are included?
- How many clinical hours are required?
- Are travel expenses the student’s responsibility?
- Are there prerequisites before beginning clinical rotations?
For students in rural Georgia, clinical-site availability and travel distance can be especially important when comparing programs.
Step 4 — Pass the VTNE
The Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) is the national examination used in Georgia’s veterinary technician licensing process.
| VTNE Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Examination | Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) |
| Examination Organization | AAVSB |
| Registration | Through AAVSB |
| Format | Computer-based examination |
| Passing Requirement | Georgia requires a passing VTNE score accepted by the Board |
| Georgia Rule Standard | Current Rule 700-6-.01 specifies a passing scaled score of at least 425 on the 200–800 scale or at least 75 on a 0–100 scale, unless another accepted examination is used |
| Fee | Verify the current fee directly with AAVSB |
Georgia’s current veterinary technician rule also requires applicants to provide proof of passing the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam.
VTNE performance can be useful when comparing programs. Review recent program-level outcomes where available, but do not evaluate a school using pass rate alone. Program accreditation, clinical training, graduation outcomes, cost, location, and student support also matter.
Step 5 — Pass the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam
Georgia requires applicants for veterinary technician licensure to pass the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam.
The exam focuses on Georgia-specific veterinary laws, rules, professional requirements, and restrictions that apply to veterinary technicians.
The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine provides the law examination form. Applicants should use the current version provided by the Board rather than relying on an older copy found elsewhere online.
You must achieve a passing result before the Georgia veterinary technician license can be issued.
Step 6 — Apply for Your Georgia LVT License
After completing the required education and examinations, apply for veterinary technician licensure through the Georgia Secretary of State’s professional licensing system.
The Georgia State Board currently requires documentation that can include:
- Completed veterinary technician license application
- $50 non-refundable, non-transferable application fee
- Required photograph
- Proof of graduation from an AVMA-approved veterinary technician program
- VTNE score documentation
- Passing Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam
- Citizenship and other required documentation
- Additional documentation requested by the Board
The Board states that incomplete applications can be withdrawn if required supplemental documents are not provided within the applicable timeframe.
Georgia’s current rules state that veterinary technician licenses are renewable biennially and expire on December 31 of even-numbered years.
What LVTs Can Do in Georgia: Scope of Practice
Georgia has specific rules governing the scope of practice for veterinary technicians and the level of veterinarian supervision required for different tasks.
Georgia recognizes three main levels of supervision for veterinary technician duties:
Immediate Supervision
Immediate supervision means the licensed veterinarian is within both audible and visual range of the animal patient and the person treating the animal.
Under immediate supervision, Georgia’s rules specifically permit veterinary technicians to provide surgical assistance.
Direct Supervision
Direct supervision means the veterinarian is on the premises and quickly and easily available, and the animal has been examined by the veterinarian as appropriate for the delegated task.
Examples of duties permitted under direct supervision include:
- Euthanasia
- Administration of blood or blood components
- Application of splints and slings
- Certain dental procedures
- Non-emergency intubation
- Induction and maintenance of anesthesia
- Certain medication-related tasks under veterinarian direction
- Certain dental extractions
- Certain central venous and arterial catheterization procedures
Indirect Supervision
Indirect supervision means the veterinarian is not on the premises but has provided appropriate instructions, and the animal has been examined by a licensed veterinarian at times appropriate to the task.
Examples include:
- Certain medication and treatment administration
- Radiography
- Blood collection
- Urine and fecal collection
- Routine laboratory procedures
- Certain diagnostic specimen collection
- Blood component collection and preparation
Emergency animal-care procedures are also addressed separately under Georgia’s rules.
Important Restrictions
Georgia’s rules do not permit a veterinary technician to:
- Make a diagnosis or prognosis
- Prescribe treatments, drugs, medications, or appliances
- Perform surgery
- Administer rabies vaccination where prohibited by Georgia law
The exact supervision requirement depends on the task. Students and technicians should consult the current Georgia rules rather than relying on a generalized list of duties.
AVMA-Accredited Vet Tech Programs in Georgia
Georgia has multiple AVMA-CVTEA-accredited veterinary technology programs. Based on current program information, Georgia’s established programs include:
| Program | Location | Credential | Format / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athens Technical College | Athens | Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology | Campus-based program with clinical training |
| Fort Valley State University | Fort Valley | Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology | Four-year program |
| Gwinnett Technical College | Lawrenceville | Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology | Campus-based program |
| Ogeechee Technical College | Statesboro | Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology | Campus-based program |
| Southern Regional Technical College | Thomasville | Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology | Campus-based program |
| Ashworth College | Norcross | Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technician | Voluntary terminal accreditation; no new admissions |
Important: Ashworth College’s veterinary technician program is in voluntary terminal accreditation and has a moratorium on new admissions. It should not be treated as a currently enrolling option for new students.
The five actively enrolling Georgia-based programs are the more relevant choices for students currently looking to begin veterinary technology education.
Before enrolling, verify each program’s current AVMA-CVTEA status and admissions availability.
What to Compare
VTNE performance — Review recent first-time pass-rate data where available. Do not rely on one year’s result alone.
Clinical training structure — Ask whether the program arranges clinical placements or requires students to locate their own sites.
Large-animal exposure — If you want equine, livestock, or mixed-animal experience, verify that the program provides appropriate clinical opportunities.
Program format — Campus programs provide structured laboratory and clinical instruction. Distance programs provide more flexibility but still require hands-on clinical education.
Program outcomes — Compare graduation, employment, and VTNE data when schools publish them.
Total cost — Compare tuition, fees, books, equipment, vaccines, transportation, clinical expenses, and other program-specific costs rather than tuition alone.
Online Vet Tech Programs for Georgia Students
Georgia students who cannot attend a local campus may consider AVMA-CVTEA-accredited distance veterinary technology programs that accept Georgia residents.
However, online veterinary technology education does not mean the entire program can be completed remotely.
Key facts to verify before enrolling:
- The program must currently hold the appropriate AVMA-CVTEA accreditation status.
- Confirm that the program accepts students residing in Georgia.
- Confirm that you can complete required clinical training.
- Ask whether the school helps arrange an approved clinical site.
- Confirm whether clinical travel is required.
- Review recent VTNE outcomes.
- Check whether the program’s credential meets Georgia’s current licensing requirements.
For a full comparison of national distance options, see our Online Vet Tech Programs guide.
Vet Tech Salary in Georgia
The most useful way to compare Georgia veterinary technician earnings is to use current Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data rather than broad salary estimates.
For May 2025, Georgia veterinary technologists and technicians had a median annual wage of approximately $43,060, or about $20.70 per hour.
| Georgia Vet Tech Salary | May 2025 |
|---|---|
| Median annual wage | $43,060 |
| Median hourly wage | $20.70 |
| Estimated employment | About 2,410 |
| National median annual wage | $47,380 |
Georgia wages vary significantly by location, experience, employer, specialty, and work setting.
The most important salary variables include:
Location within the state — Metropolitan markets such as Atlanta can offer access to a broader range of specialty, emergency, corporate, and referral employers. Smaller markets may have different wage levels and employment opportunities.
Employer type — General practices, specialty hospitals, emergency hospitals, research institutions, universities, laboratories, and corporate veterinary groups can have different compensation structures.
Experience — Technicians with stronger clinical skills and several years of experience may qualify for higher-paying positions.
Specialization — Experienced technicians who pursue Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) credentials may qualify for specialized roles in areas such as anesthesia, emergency and critical care, dentistry, internal medicine, or other specialty fields.
For a full comparison of veterinary technician wages across the country, see our Vet Tech Salary by State guide.
Job Outlook for Vet Techs in Georgia
The national employment outlook for veterinary technologists and technicians is strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9% employment growth from 2025 to 2035, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
National demand is influenced by continued demand for veterinary services, advances in veterinary medicine, specialty and emergency care, and the increasing range of diagnostic and treatment services performed by veterinary teams.
Georgia’s employment outlook also depends on local factors, including population, veterinary practice growth, employer demand, and the concentration of specialty and emergency practices.
Metropolitan veterinary markets can provide more opportunities across general practice, emergency medicine, specialty medicine, research, and corporate veterinary care.
Rural and regional markets may provide opportunities in mixed-animal, equine, livestock, agricultural, and general veterinary practices.
For Georgia-specific projections, consult the latest state employment projections in addition to the national BLS outlook.
What Makes Georgia Different for Vet Tech Students
Every state has its own licensing rules, but several practical factors are especially relevant when choosing a Georgia veterinary technology program.
Georgia offers several different program formats and degree options. Students can compare associate-level programs with Fort Valley State University’s four-year bachelor’s pathway.
Georgia has both metropolitan and rural veterinary career environments. Atlanta and other larger cities provide access to specialty and emergency practices, while other parts of the state can offer mixed-animal, equine, livestock, and general-practice opportunities.
Clinical-site planning matters. A program that looks convenient geographically may still require travel for clinical rotations, laboratories, or externships. Ask about these requirements before enrolling.
The Georgia law exam is an additional licensing step. Students should not assume that passing the VTNE alone completes the Georgia licensing process. The current Georgia rules require a passing score on the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam as well.
Renewal is biennial. Georgia veterinary technician licenses expire on December 31 of even-numbered years, and technicians must meet the Board’s continuing education requirements for renewal.
Is This Career Right for You?
The most useful question to ask before investing time and tuition is not simply “Do I love animals?” It is whether you are suited to clinical healthcare work.
Strong fit indicators:
- You stay calm and focused under pressure.
- You are comfortable with medical procedures such as injections, blood collection, anesthesia, and surgery preparation.
- You enjoy precise, hands-on technical work.
- You can communicate clearly with clients during stressful situations.
- You are comfortable working as part of a veterinary healthcare team.
- You have the physical stamina required for animal handling and clinical work.
- You are willing to continue learning as veterinary medicine changes.
Worth reconsidering:
- You have a strong aversion to medical procedures or emergency situations.
- You mainly want to work with animals but are not interested in clinical medicine.
- You dislike fast-paced environments.
- You are uncomfortable communicating with pet owners.
- You are not prepared for the physical demands of veterinary work.
Clinical training is often where students discover what the profession is actually like. Understanding the difference between enjoying animals and enjoying veterinary medicine can help you make a better education decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many AVMA-accredited vet tech programs are in Georgia?
Georgia has multiple AVMA-CVTEA-accredited veterinary technology programs. Current Georgia options include Athens Technical College, Fort Valley State University, Gwinnett Technical College, Ogeechee Technical College, and Southern Regional Technical College. Ashworth College’s veterinary technician program remains in voluntary terminal accreditation but is not accepting new students. Because accreditation status can change, verify the current AVMA directory before enrolling.
Is vet tech licensure required in Georgia?
Georgia licenses veterinary technicians as Licensed Veterinary Technicians (LVTs). Applicants must meet the Board’s education and examination requirements before receiving a Georgia veterinary technician license.
What is the VTNE and how do I register for it?
The VTNE is the Veterinary Technician National Examination administered through the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). Georgia requires applicants to provide proof of a passing VTNE score as part of the licensing process.
Does Georgia require a state law exam for veterinary technicians?
Yes. Georgia requires applicants to pass the Georgia Veterinary Technician Law Exam before a veterinary technician license can be issued.
How long does it take to become a vet tech in Georgia?
The timeline depends on the program. Many associate-level veterinary technology programs take approximately 2–3 years, while Fort Valley State University’s veterinary technology bachelor’s program is designed as a four-year degree. Students must also complete the required examinations and licensing process.
What do vet techs earn in Georgia?
The Georgia median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians was approximately $43,060 in May 2025, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Individual earnings vary by location, experience, employer, specialty, and work setting.
Can I become a vet tech in Georgia through an online program?
Yes, if the distance program is appropriately accredited and accepts Georgia residents. However, veterinary technology programs still require hands-on clinical education. Students should verify clinical-site arrangements and Georgia licensing eligibility before enrolling.
What continuing education is required to renew a Georgia LVT license?
Georgia veterinary technicians generally need 11 hours of Board-approved continuing education per biennium, including 1 hour in Georgia laws, rules and professionalism (LEAP). Technicians licensed during the first year of a biennium have a reduced first-renewal requirement, while those licensed during the second year are exempt from CE for that first renewal period.
When does a Georgia veterinary technician license expire?
Georgia veterinary technician licenses expire on December 31 of even-numbered years and are renewed biennially.
How much is the Georgia veterinary technician application fee?
The Georgia Secretary of State currently lists a $50 non-refundable and non-transferable application fee for veterinary technician licensure.
Can veterinary technicians diagnose animals in Georgia?
No. Georgia’s veterinary technician scope-of-practice rules do not permit veterinary technicians to make a diagnosis or prognosis, prescribe treatments or medications, or perform surgery.
Nearby State Programs
If you live near Georgia’s borders, programs in neighboring states may be worth comparing:
- Vet Tech Programs in Alabama
- Vet Tech Programs in Tennessee
- Vet Tech Programs in South Carolina
- Vet Tech Programs in Florida
- Vet Tech Programs in North Carolina
Related Guides
- Online Vet Tech Programs
- VTNE Study Guide
- Vet Tech Salary by State
- Vet Assistant Programs in Georgia
- How to Become a Vet Tech
Sources
Editorial Policy
This page uses publicly available information from official Georgia licensing authorities, accreditation organizations, government labor statistics, and individual educational institutions.
Licensing requirements, examination procedures, continuing education requirements, fees, program accreditation status, and salary data can change over time. Always verify current requirements directly with the Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine, AVMA-CVTEA, AAVSB, and the individual school before enrolling or applying.
Licensing requirements, accreditation status, examination fees, and salary figures are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with the Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine, AVMA-CVTEA, and AAVSB before enrolling or applying.