Registration
Register to practice in Alberta
Get started
Choose your pathway
Veterinarians and veterinary technologists must be registered with the ABVMA before practicing in Alberta.
Your application pathway depends on your profession, education and current registration status. Start below to find the information and application that apply to you.
Which one am I?
Veterinarian or veterinary technologist?
Both are regulated animal health professionals, but their education, responsibilities and registration requirements are different.
Veterinarians
Veterinarians diagnose medical conditions, prescribe treatment and medication, perform surgery and oversee animals’ medical care.
Registered veterinary technologists
RVTs provide skilled nursing, technical and diagnostic care as part of the veterinary team. Their work may include laboratory testing, anesthesia monitoring, imaging, treatment support and client education.
The process
What to expect
1
Find your pathway
Choose the application that matches your profession, education and registration status.
2
Prepare your documents
Review the checklist before applying. Some documents must be notarized or sent directly by another organization.
3
Submit your application
Complete the online form and pay the application fee.
4
We review your application
We will contact you if anything else is required and confirm when your registration has been approved.
Apply early. Processing timelines begin once all required information and documents have been received, and can take up to six weeks.
Get ready
Before you begin
Most applicants will need:
- Proof of identity and authorization to work in Canada
- Education and examination records
- A recent photograph
- Letters of good standing, if previously registered elsewhere
- Character references
- Payment of the application fee
Requirements vary by application. Review your pathway’s checklist before submitting anything.
Registration supports safe, trusted veterinary care
Registration confirms that veterinary professionals have met Alberta’s requirements for education, competence and professional conduct.
Once registered, members are part of a regulated profession and have access to professional guidance, regulatory resources, learning opportunities and Alberta’s veterinary community.
Need help?
Not sure where to begin?
Not sure which application applies to you? Contact our Registration team.