What is the difference between an RVT, LVT and CVT?

As you may have noticed, some veterinary technicians refer to themselves as licensed, while others may say registered or certified.

What does this really mean? They all mean the same thing, it just depends on what state you live in. 

“The current terminology recognized by decree of both NAVTA and the AVMA is "Veterinary Technician". Whether you are an LVT(licensed veterinary technician), RVT (registered veterinary technician) or CVT (certified veterinary technician), the term used is mandatedby the technician’s state of residence.”

“Each state regulates their veterinary technicians differently. Some are registered, some licensed and some certified. Most states use the Veterinary Technician National Exam, and regardless of which title is bestowed after passing the exam, you can have the score you received in one state transferred to another if the two states use the same exam. In most cases, after paying the state's fee, you are then considered certified, licensed or registered in that state. Some states require a practical exam in addition to the written national exam. You would then have to fulfill that requirement before becoming fully credentialed in that state.” –NAVTA 

Visit the NAVTA website for further information about this and other vet tech credentialing questions.