Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
About the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
The Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners was created in 1905 by an act of the State Legislature. Its mission is to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of Tennesseans by insuring that all who practice as a veterinarian, veterinary medical technician, or euthanasia technician within this state are qualified. Effective January 1, 1997 veterinary facilities are required to obtain a premise permit. The Board interprets the laws, rules, and regulations to determine the appropriate standards of practice and assures the highest degree of professional conduct. The Board is responsible for the investigation of alleged violations of law and rules, and disciplines licensees, facility owners, and facilities that are found guilty. The Board may grant licensure by either examination or endorsement from other states.
The administrative staff of the Division of Health Related Boards supports the Board by issuing licenses to those who meet the requirements of the law and rules. Renewal notices are mailed from the Board's administrative office approximately sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of the license to the current address on record. Individual licenses can be renewed on-line sixty (60) days prior to expiration at https://apps.tn.gov/hlrs/. Veterinary facilities can submit renewals ninety (90) days prior to expiration. Click on the "License Renewal" link and follow the prompts. Licensees are responsible for renewing their licenses on time and keeping the Board apprised of current information. It is a violation of the law and of the board’s rules to practice on an expired license.
Board meetings are scheduled throughout the year for purposes of conducting administrative business concerning ratifying licenses, promulgating rules, disciplinary matters, etc. A quorum of four (4) members is required to conduct business. The meetings are open to the public. All members of the Board are appointed by the Governor and serve five (5) year terms.
Contact the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
615-532-5090 local or 1-800-778-4123 nationwide or write
665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Email: Veterinary.Health@tn.gov