The NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) is required to practice veterinary medicine in the U.S. and Canada. It is administered by the ICVA (International Council for Veterinary Assessment). Vet technicians take the VTNE instead.
Warm up with the free NAVLE practice test.
Key takeaways
- 360 multiple-choice questions (300 scored) in 6.5 hours.
- Scaled 200–800, with 425 as the passing score.
- The testing fee is about $800 (state or provincial fees may apply).
- From the October–November 2026 window, the exam is split into 12 blocks of 30 questions.
USA NAVLE Exam: Quick Facts
- Administered by
- ICVA
- Questions
- 360 (300 scored)
- Time
- 6.5 hours
- Passing
- 425 (200–800 scale)
- Fee
- About $800
NAVLE Exam Content
Questions cover all common species, including canine, feline, bovine, equine, porcine, ovine/caprine and avian, plus public health, pharmacology and diagnostics. Many are clinical scenarios asking for the diagnosis, next step or treatment.
More on NAVLE Exam Content →Free practice test
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Go to the USA NAVLE Exam practice test →USA NAVLE Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the NAVLE?
360 multiple-choice questions, 300 of them scored, in about 6.5 hours.
Full answer →How much does the NAVLE cost?
The ICVA testing fee is about $800; some licensing boards add their own fees.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.