Unlocking the Secrets of Temporary Licenses for Veterinarians: What You Need to Know About 'Grey Vets
The term "Grey Vets" refers to veterinarians practicing under temporary licenses while completing specific requirements for full licensure. These temporary licenses are indeed provisional, allowing individuals to practice under supervision until they fulfill all necessary criteria, such as passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) or completing additional educational prerequisites.
The availability and conditions of temporary veterinary licenses vary by state. For instance, Kentucky offers a "Special Permit" that allows graduates who need to retake the NAVLE to work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian until their retake scores are released. Similarly, Delaware provides temporary permits for nonresident veterinarians validly licensed in another jurisdiction, allowing them to work temporarily in the state.
New Hampshire’s Conditional License Law
In addition, New Hampshire has introduced a new law that took effect on September 17, creating a conditional license for veterinarians who have completed three of the four parts of the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) program. This conditional license allows these veterinarians to practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian while completing the remaining requirement—the Clinical Proficiency Exam (CPE). To maintain the conditional license, they must complete the CPE within two years, with the possibility of a two-year renewal.
The CPE is a rigorous, three-day, seven-section test that involves hands-on procedures, including surgery. In recent years, a post-pandemic surge in applicants has created a backlog for the exam. Some applicants have experienced wait times of over a year to take the test. Furthermore, since many candidates fail at least one part of the exam, the entire process can extend over several years.
Currently, more than 2,000 candidates are enrolled in the ECFVG program, with varying stages of completion. As of 2024, there were only 248 seats available for the full seven-section CPE, along with over 300 seats for retakes of individual sections, which further highlights the bottleneck in the process.
To determine which states offer temporary veterinary licenses, you can consult resources such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or state veterinary regulatory boards. The AVMA provides a directory of state veterinary regulatory boards, which can offer detailed information on licensure requirements and the availability of temporary permits.
Additionally, online forums and professional networks can provide anecdotal insights and experiences from individuals who have navigated temporary licensure in various states. However, it’s essential to verify any information obtained from such sources with official state regulatory bodies to ensure accuracy and compliance with current regulations.
Given the variability in regulations, it’s crucial to consult the specific veterinary regulatory board in the state where you intend to practice. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding temporary licensure and the requirements for transitioning to full licensure.
