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Chapter 246-935 WAC

Last Update: 4/11/24

VETERINARY TECHNICIANS

WAC Sections

HTMLPDF246-935-010Definitions.
HTMLPDF246-935-020Applications—Veterinary technicians.
HTMLPDF246-935-030Grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of licensure.
HTMLPDF246-935-040Responsibilities of a veterinarian supervising a licensed veterinary technician or an unregistered assistant.
HTMLPDF246-935-050Animal health care tasks.
HTMLPDF246-935-060Eligibility for examination as veterinary technician.
HTMLPDF246-935-070Examination for licensure as a veterinary technician.
HTMLPDF246-935-090Examination review procedures.
HTMLPDF246-935-100Reexamination.
HTMLPDF246-935-110Examination procedures.
HTMLPDF246-935-120Frequency and location of examination.
HTMLPDF246-935-135How to obtain a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed.
CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
HTMLPDF246-935-270Purpose.
HTMLPDF246-935-280Continuing education requirement.
HTMLPDF246-935-285Approval of courses.
HTMLPDF246-935-290Organizations, institutions, or individuals approved by the veterinary board to provide continuing education courses.
HTMLPDF246-935-295Categories and methods of continuing education activities.
HTMLPDF246-935-305Veterinary technician suicide prevention education.
HTMLPDF246-935-307Veterinary technicians health equity continuing education training requirements.
HTMLPDF246-935-310Exceptions.
PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF LEGEND DRUGS, NONLEGEND DRUGS AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
HTMLPDF246-935-400Citation and purpose.
HTMLPDF246-935-410Definitions.
HTMLPDF246-935-420Delegated nondiscretionary functions used in preparing, and the administration of, legend drugs, nonlegend drugs and controlled substances.
HTMLPDF246-935-430Controlled substance storage and records.
HTMLPDF246-935-440Maintenance of patient medical records.
HTMLPDF246-935-990Veterinary technician fees and renewal cycle.
DISPOSITION OF SECTIONS FORMERLY CODIFIED IN THIS TITLE
246-935-080Grading of examinations. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-080, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-080, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 85-03-085 (Order PL 509), § 308-156-070, filed 1/18/85. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-070, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-070, filed 12/21/79.] Repealed by WSR 93-08-029 (Order 353B), filed 3/30/93, effective 4/30/93. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030
246-935-125Registration/renewal/late penalty. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 93-08-029 (Order 353B), § 246-935-125, filed 3/30/93, effective 4/30/93. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.040 and 18.92.140. WSR 92-07-036 (Order 252), § 246-935-125, filed 3/10/92, effective 4/10/92.] Repealed by WSR 97-20-101, filed 9/29/97, effective 10/30/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.040.
246-935-130AIDS prevention and information education requirements. [Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.280. WSR 98-05-060, § 246-935-130, filed 2/13/98, effective 3/16/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 70.24.270. WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-130, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-130, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: 1988 c 206 § 604 and RCW 18.92.030. WSR 89-10-076 (Order PM 836), § 308-156-200, filed 5/3/89.] Repealed by WSR 22-11-062, filed 5/16/22, effective 6/16/22. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.92.280, and 2020 cc 229 and 76.
246-935-140Disciplinary reinstatement procedures. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-140, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-140, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 89-02-006 (Order PM 804), § 308-157-010, filed 12/27/88.] Repealed by WSR 99-14-076, filed 7/6/99, effective 8/6/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030.
246-935-145Purpose and performance of practical experience standard tasks and procedures. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-145, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-150Definitions. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-150, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-160Basic veterinary science knowledge. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-160, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-170Clinical/pathology and laboratory diagnostics. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-170, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-180Hospital standard operating procedures, instruments, and equipment. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-180, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-190Anesthesia and emergency procedures. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-190, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-200Pharmacy. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-200, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-210Public health, infectious diseases, and zoonosis. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-210, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-220Dental. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-220, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-230Imaging equipment and techniques. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-230, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-235Supervised practical experience and unlicensed practice. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-235, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-240Trainee. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-240, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-250Supervising veterinarian's attestation. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-250, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-255Forms. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.128. WSR 10-11-119, § 246-935-255, filed 5/18/10, effective 6/18/10.] Repealed by WSR 15-14-008, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128.
246-935-300Self-study continuing veterinary technician education activities. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-20-126, § 246-935-300, filed 10/1/08, effective 11/1/08.] Repealed by WSR 20-04-027, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030.

PDF246-935-010

Definitions.

(1) "Anesthesia maintenance" means maintaining adequate depth of anesthesia through control of the amount and type of drug(s) delivered to the animal patient.
(2) "Anesthesia monitoring" means measuring, reporting, and recording vital signs.
(3) "Direct supervision" means the veterinary supervisor is on the premises, is quickly and easily available and the animal patient has been examined by a veterinarian at such times as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires, consistent with the particular delegated animal health care task.
(4) "Emergency" means that the animal patient has a life-threatening condition where immediate treatment is necessary to sustain life or avoid significant injury and morbidity.
(5) "Immediate supervision" means the supervisor is in audible and visual range of the animal patient and the person treating the patient.
(6) "Indirect supervision" means the supervisor is not on the premises, but has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the animal patient and the animal patient has been examined by a veterinarian at such times as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires, consistent with the particular delegated animal health care task and the animal patient is not anesthetized.
(7) "Licensed veterinary technician" means any person who has met the requirements of RCW 18.92.015 and who is licensed as required by chapter 18.92 RCW.
(8) "Supervisor" means a veterinarian or a licensed veterinary technician.
(9) "Unregistered assistant" means any individual who is not a veterinary technician or veterinarian.
(10) "Veterinarian" means a person authorized by chapter 18.92 RCW to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Washington.
(11) "Veterinary medical facility" is any premises, unit, structure or vehicle where any animal patient is received and/or confined, in order to provide veterinary medicine, surgery, or dentistry as defined in RCW 18.92.010.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.92.125. WSR 09-15-120, § 246-935-010, filed 7/17/09, effective 8/17/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-010, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-010, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-010, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-010, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-010, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-010, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-020

Applications—Veterinary technicians.

Applications for licensure as a veterinary technician shall be made on forms prepared by the secretary of the department of health and submitted to the department of health. Applications must be received at least sixty days prior to the scheduled examination. The application, in addition to the required fee, must be accompanied by satisfactory evidence of experience and/or official transcripts or other evidence of completion of educational courses approved by the board. The application shall be signed by the applicant. When the application and the accompanying evidence are found satisfactory, the secretary shall notify the applicant of eligibility to be scheduled for the veterinary technician examination.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-020, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-020, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 92-02-057 (Order 233B), § 246-935-020, filed 12/30/91, effective 1/30/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-020, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-020, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-020, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-030

Grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of licensure.

The board may suspend, revoke or deny the issuance or renewal of license of any veterinary technician and file its decision in the secretary's office if the veterinary technician:
(1) Has employed fraud or misrepresentation in applying for or obtaining the license;
(2) Has within ten years prior to the date of application been found guilty of a criminal offense relating to the practice of veterinary medicine, surgery and dentistry, including, but not limited to:
(a) Any violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act or the Legend Drug Act;
(b) Chronic inebriety;
(c) Cruelty to animals;
(3) Has violated or attempted to violate any provision of chapter 18.92 RCW or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to that chapter;
(4) Has assisted, abetted or conspired with another person to violate chapter 18.92 RCW, or any rule or regulation adopted under that chapter;
(5) Has performed any animal health care service not authorized by WAC 246-935-040 or 246-935-050.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-030, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-030, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-030, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-030, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-030, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-030, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-040

Responsibilities of a veterinarian supervising a licensed veterinary technician or an unregistered assistant.

(1) A veterinarian must not delegate:
(a) To any licensed veterinary technician the performance of any animal health care services not authorized by WAC 246-935-040 or 246-935-050.
(b) To any unregistered assistant the performance of any animal health care services not authorized by WAC 246-935-040 or 246-935-050.
(2) The supervising veterinarian shall:
(a) Have legal responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of the animal patient which the licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant serves.
(b) Delegate animal health care tasks only if the licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant is qualified to perform the task, and the task is not precluded by the medical condition of the animal patient.
(c) Use the level of supervision required for a specific task.
(d) Make all decisions relating to the diagnosis, treatment, management, and future disposition of an animal patient.
(e) Limit the number of unregistered assistants under indirect supervision to that which is appropriate for the circumstances.
(f) Allow licensed veterinary technicians and unregistered assistants the right and responsibility to refuse to perform duties they are not legally or technically able to perform.
(3) A supervising veterinarian shall examine the animal patient prior to the delegation of any animal health care task to either a licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant. The examination of the animal patient must be conducted at the times and in the manner consistent with veterinary medicine practice, and the particular delegated animal health care task.
(4) If a licensed veterinary technician is authorized to provide supervision for an unregistered assistant performing a specified health care task, the licensed veterinary technician shall be under the same degree of supervision by the veterinarian, as if the licensed veterinary technician were performing the task.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.92.125. WSR 09-15-120, § 246-935-040, filed 7/17/09, effective 8/17/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-02-046, § 246-935-040, filed 12/27/01, effective 1/27/02; WSR 92-02-057 (Order 233B), § 246-935-040, filed 12/30/91, effective 1/30/92; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-040, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-040, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-045, filed 9/19/83.]


PDF246-935-050

Animal health care tasks.

No individual, other than a licensed veterinary technician, may advertise or offer her/his services in a manner calculated to lead others to believe that she/he is a trained or licensed veterinary technician.
(1) Licensed veterinary technicians and unregistered assistants are prohibited from performing the following activities:
(a) Surgery except as outlined below;
(b) Diagnosis and prognosis;
(c) Prescribing drugs, medication or appliances;
(d) Initiation of treatment without prior instruction by a veterinarian except as outlined under emergency animal care.
(2) Immediate supervision. Unregistered assistants are not authorized to perform the tasks in this section. A licensed veterinary technician may perform the following tasks only under the immediate supervision of a veterinarian: Dental extractions.
(3) Direct supervision. Unregistered assistants are not authorized to perform the tasks in this section. A licensed veterinary technician may perform the following tasks only under the direct supervision of a veterinarian:
(a) Anesthesia:
(i) Induction, including preanesthesia;
(ii) Maintenance;
(iii) Monitoring.
(b) Application of casts and splints;
(c) Floating teeth;
(d) Intraperitoneal injections;
(e) Blood administration;
(f) Closure, including suturing, of prepared skin wound or gingival incision;
(g) Arterial and central venous catheters.
(4) Indirect supervision. Unregistered assistants are not authorized to perform the tasks in this section. A licensed veterinary technician may perform the following tasks only under the indirect supervision of a veterinarian:
(a) Intravenous injections into uncatheterized vein;
(b) Centesis, including fine needle aspirates;
(c) Unobstructed bladder catheter;
(d) Diagnostic procedures:
(i) Fecal analysis;
(ii) Electrocardiograms;
(iii) Blood pressure;
(iv) Cytology analysis, including urinalysis and hematology;
(v) Microbiology.
(e) Placement and use of nasogastric and orogastric tubes for gavage, lavage, or reflux;
(f) Ophthalmological procedures:
(i) Tear production testing;
(ii) Topical anesthetic application;
(iii) Fluorescein staining of the cornea;
(iv) Tonometry.
(g) Tasks authorized to be performed under immediate or direct supervision for unregistered assistants, may be performed by licensed veterinary technicians under indirect supervision unless otherwise restricted.
(5) Immediate supervision for unregistered assistants. An unregistered assistant may perform the following tasks only under the immediate supervision of a veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician:
(a) Place and secure an intravenous catheter;
(b) Monitor vital signs of an anesthetized patient;
(c) Dental prophy.
(6) Direct supervision for unregistered assistant. An unregistered assistant may perform the following tasks only under the direct supervision of a veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician:
(a) Intravenous injection into catheterized vein;
(b) Vaccines (except for rabies and those diseases described in subsection (8) of this section) with the veterinarian's verification signature on an appropriate certificate;
(c) Imaging procedures;
(d) Removal of sutures, drain tubes and staples;
(e) Bandaging;
(f) Removal of exposed foreign bodies;
(g) Lab sample collection and test preparation (not evaluation) to include:
(i) Venipuncture;
(ii) Skin scraping.
(h) Microchip implantation;
(i) Enema;
(j) Ear flush;
(k) Perform electrocardiogram and blood pressure measurements;
(l) Intramuscular and subcutaneous injection;
(m) Massage except where regulated.
(7) Indirect supervision for unregistered assistants. An unregistered assistant must always be under the indirect supervision of a veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician, except as listed in subsections (5) and (6) of this section. Tasks not specifically listed or otherwise restricted may be performed by a licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant under the indirect supervision of a veterinarian.
(8) Veterinary biologics. Licensed veterinary technicians and unregistered assistants may only administer veterinary biologics for rabies and those diseases listed in WAC 16-42-026(1) under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.
(9) Rabies vaccinations require an appropriate rabies certificate. The certificate is considered part of the medical record and must contain at least the following information:
(a) Owner's name, address, and telephone number;
(b) Species age, breed, sex, size, name, and predominant colors/markings;
(c) Month, day, and year of vaccination;
(d) Month, day, and year of next vaccination due date;
(e) Product name and identification of manufacturer;
(f) Effective date of vaccine, example: One year, three years;
(g) Vaccine serial or lot number; and
(h) Veterinarian's name, license number, address, and signature.
(10) To be authorized to dispense pharmaceuticals, unregistered assistants must be registered as a veterinary medication clerk under chapter 246-937 WAC.
(11) Emergency animal care. Under conditions of an emergency, a licensed veterinary technician and unregistered assistant may render certain life saving aid to an animal patient.
(a) A licensed veterinary technician may:
(i) Apply emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first-aid procedures and all tasks as listed in subsections (3), (4), (5), and (6) of this section;
(ii) Administer pharmacologic agents and parenteral fluids only after communication with a veterinarian.
(b) An unregistered assistant may:
(i) Apply noninvasive cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic first aid procedures;
(ii) Provide other aid upon the order of a licensed veterinarian as outlined in this section.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 16-03-086, § 246-935-050, filed 1/20/16, effective 2/20/16. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.92.125. WSR 09-15-120, § 246-935-050, filed 7/17/09, effective 8/17/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-050, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 07-17-169, § 246-935-050, filed 8/22/07, effective 9/22/07; WSR 02-02-046, § 246-935-050, filed 12/27/01, effective 1/27/02; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-050, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-050, filed 9/19/83.]


PDF246-935-060

Eligibility for examination as veterinary technician.

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria to be eligible for the examination.
(1) Completion of an approved postsecondary educational program for animal or veterinary technology.
(a) Completion of a program for animal or veterinary technology approved by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The board approves all institutions accredited by, and in good standing with, the AVMA.
(b) Completion of a program for animal or veterinary technology approved by the Animal Health Technologist/Veterinary Technician Program Accreditation Committee (AHT/VTPAC) of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). The board approves all institutions accredited by, and in good standing with, the CVMA.
(c) Completion of a Washington state apprenticeship program registered in accordance with chapters 296-05 WAC and 49.04 RCW.
(d) Other institutions applying for board approval must meet the accreditation standards of the CVTEA. It is the responsibility of the institution to apply for approval and of a student to ascertain whether or not a school has been approved by the board.
(e) The examination may be taken no sooner than six months before graduation from the approved course of instruction.
(2) Graduation from a two-year curriculum in animal health or veterinary technology which is not accredited by the CVTEA or AHT/VTPAC plus a minimum of 36 months of full-time experience under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian(s) who must attest to the completion of that experience.
(3) Award of a D.V.M. or V.M.D. degree or equivalent from an American Veterinary Medical Association accredited or listed college of veterinary medicine.
(4) Registration, certification, or licensure as an animal health or veterinary technician in one or more states and 36 months of full-time experience under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian(s).
(5) Completion of a course in veterinary technician education as a member of the United States military and completion of a tour of active duty as a veterinary technician or specialist.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.128. WSR 24-09-036, § 246-935-060, filed 4/11/24, effective 5/12/24. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2) and 18.92.128. WSR 15-14-008, § 246-935-060, filed 6/18/15, effective 7/19/15. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 09-21-022, § 246-935-060, filed 10/9/09, effective 11/9/09; WSR 02-02-046, § 246-935-060, filed 12/27/01, effective 1/27/02; WSR 93-12-126 (Order 368B), § 246-935-060, filed 6/2/93, effective 7/3/93; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-060, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-060, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-055, filed 9/19/83.]


PDF246-935-070

Examination for licensure as a veterinary technician.

(1) All applicants shall be required to successfully complete the veterinary technician national examination as approved by the board, and the Washington state examination that consists of questions pertaining to the laws and rules regulating technicians.
(2) The passing criteria or score is:
(a) Criteria-referenced passing score on the national examination.
(b) Ninety percent on the Washington state examination.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-070, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 03-11-034, § 246-935-070, filed 5/15/03, effective 6/15/03; WSR 93-08-029 (Order 353B), § 246-935-070, filed 3/30/93, effective 4/30/93; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-070, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-070, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-08-033 (Order PM 719), § 308-156-060, filed 4/1/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-060, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-060, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-090

Examination review procedures.

(1) Each individual who takes the examination for licensure as a veterinary technician and does not pass the examination may request review by the board of his or her examination results. This request must be in writing and shall be received by the board within thirty days of notification of the examination results. The request shall state the reason or reasons the applicant feels the results of the examination should be changed. The board shall not consider any challenges to examination scores unless the total revised score could result in the issuance of a license. The board shall consider the following to be adequate reasons for consideration for review and possible modification of examination results:
(a) A showing of a significant procedural error in the examination process;
(b) Evidence of bias, prejudice or discrimination in the examination process;
(c) Other significant errors which result in substantial disadvantage to the applicant.
(2) Any applicant who is not satisfied with the result of the examination review may appeal the board's decision and may request a formal hearing before the board under the Administrative Procedure Act. The hearing shall be requested within twenty days of receipt of the result of the board's review of the examination results.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-11-099, § 246-935-090, filed 5/20/08, effective 6/20/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-090, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-090, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-090, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 86-08-068 (Order PL 584), § 308-156-075, filed 4/1/86.]


PDF246-935-100

Reexamination.

An applicant who has failed the veterinary technician examination may apply for reexamination.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-100, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-100, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-100, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-080, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-080, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-110

Examination procedures.

Failure to follow written or oral instructions relative to the conduct of the examination, including termination times of the examination, shall be considered grounds for expulsion from the examination.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-110, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-110, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-08-033 (Order PM 719), § 308-156-090, filed 4/1/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-090, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-090, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-120

Frequency and location of examination.

(1) The examination for veterinary technicians shall be given at least once a year at times and places authorized by the secretary.
(2) If the applicant fails to appear for examination at the designated time and place, the applicant will forfeit the examination fee unless the applicant has notified the department of health in writing of an inability to appear for the scheduled exam at least five days before the designated time.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 02-10-135, § 246-935-120, filed 5/1/02, effective 6/1/02; WSR 91-24-098 (Order 221B), § 246-935-120, filed 12/4/91, effective 1/4/92; WSR 91-02-060 (Order 108B), recodified as § 246-935-120, filed 12/28/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-08-033 (Order PM 719), § 308-156-100, filed 4/1/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.015 and 18.92.030. WSR 83-19-055 (Order PL 445), § 308-156-100, filed 9/19/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 80-01-069 (Order PL 332), § 308-156-100, filed 12/21/79.]


PDF246-935-135

How to obtain a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed.

Fingerprint-based national background checks may cause a delay in licensing. Individuals who satisfy all other licensing requirements and qualifications may receive a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed.
(1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who:
(a) Holds an unrestricted, active license to practice as a veterinary technician in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards to those in Washington state;
(b) Is not subject to denial of a license or issuance of a conditional or restricted license; and
(c) Does not have a criminal record in Washington state.
(2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice as a veterinary technician.
(3) A temporary practice permit will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs:
(a) The license is granted;
(b) A notice of decision on application is mailed to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or
(c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued.
(4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must:
(a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), and documentation for the license.
(b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license, except the results from a fingerprint-based national background check, if required.
(c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license to practice as a veterinary technician from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards as Washington state.
(d) Submit the fingerprint card and a written request for a temporary practice permit when the department notifies the applicant the national background check is required.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.130.064, 18.130.075, and 18.92.030. WSR 10-06-056, § 246-935-135, filed 2/24/10, effective 3/27/10.]


CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

PDF246-935-270

Purpose.

The standards established in WAC 246-935-270 through 246-935-310 may be cited as the "veterinary technician continuing education rules." The purpose of these rules is to establish standards of continuing education for licensed veterinary technicians. The rules provide for qualifying training methods, designating approved continuing education providers and setting minimum continuing education credit requirements.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-270, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-20-126, § 246-935-270, filed 10/1/08, effective 11/1/08.]


PDF246-935-280

Continuing education requirement.

(1) Beginning January 1, 2020, a licensed veterinary technician shall complete twenty hours of continuing education every two years. Licensed veterinary technicians shall comply with chapter 246-12 WAC, Part 7 relating to continuing education requirements.
(2) A veterinary technician shall complete the continuing education requirements as follows:
If continuing education is due on the veterinary technician's renewal date in:
The next continuing education due date is on the veterinary technician's renewal date in the year below and every two years thereafter:
2020
2022
2021
2023
2022
2024
(3) The board may audit up to twenty-five percent of veterinary technicians after the license is renewed and may audit a veterinary technician for cause.
(a) Upon request by the board, the veterinary technician is responsible for submitting documentation of completed continuing education. Documentation must include, at a minimum:
(i) The name and credentials or qualifications of the continuing education provider;
(ii) The date of attendance or completion;
(iii) Course title or subject; and
(iv) The number of hours earned.
(b) Documentation for continuing education earned pursuant to WAC 246-935-295 (2)(b) must include, in addition to (a)(i) through (iv) of this subsection, a list of attendees, and materials that sufficiently describe the content of the presentation.
(c) Failure by a veterinary technician to cooperate with an audit or provide the requested proof of continuing education to the board is grounds for disciplinary action.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-280, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-20-126, § 246-935-280, filed 10/1/08, effective 11/1/08.]


PDF246-935-285

Approval of courses.

The board will not authorize or approve specific continuing education courses or materials. All continuing education courses must be provided by organizations, institutions, or individuals in WAC 246-935-290 and contribute to the professional knowledge and development of the practitioner, enhance services provided to patients, and contribute to the practitioner's ability to deliver current standards of care. The board will accept continuing education that reasonably falls within these criteria, and relies upon the integrity of each individual practitioner, as well as that of program sponsors, in complying with this requirement. Courses cannot be exclusively for product promotion. The board reserves the right to not accept credits from any area for any practitioner if, upon auditing, the board determines that a course or material did not provide appropriate information or training.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-285, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20.]


PDF246-935-290

Organizations, institutions, or individuals approved by the veterinary board to provide continuing education courses.

The board approves veterinary technician continuing education courses provided by organizations, institutions, or individuals (providers) including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) Any board approved college or school of veterinary medical technology.
(2) Any international, national, state, provincial, regional or local veterinary technician association.
(3) National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
(4) A veterinary technician specialist who is certified by a veterinary technician specialty (VTS) academy recognized by NAVTA when teaching a course within his or her area of specialty.
(5) All veterinary technician specialty academies recognized by NAVTA.
(6) The Washington state association of veterinary technicians (WSAVT).
(7) Organizations, institutions, or individuals approved for veterinarians in WAC 246-933-460.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-290, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20; WSR 16-16-070, § 246-935-290, filed 7/28/16, effective 8/28/16. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-20-126, § 246-935-290, filed 10/1/08, effective 11/1/08.]


PDF246-935-295

Categories and methods of continuing education activities.

(1) Categories of continuing education:
(a) Scientific or clinical. A minimum of fourteen scientific or clinical credit hours must be earned in any two-year reporting period. Credits must be obtained through education offered by an approved provider listed in WAC 246-935-290.
(b) Practice management or professional development. A maximum of six practice management or professional development credit hours may be claimed in any two-year reporting period.
(2) Methods by which continuing education may be obtained:
(a) Live attended courses. There is no limit for credit hours earned through live courses attended remotely, provided that attendees have the documented opportunity to question the instructor, hear the questions of other attendees, and receive responses in real time. The course must be obtained through education offered by an approved provider listed in WAC 246-935-290.
(b) Teaching. A maximum of six teaching credit hours may be claimed in any two-year reporting period. Qualifying courses must either meet the criteria under WAC 246-935-290 or must be presented through an accredited health care learning institution. Courses must be presented to veterinary technicians, other credentialed health care providers, or students of health care professions. Three credit hours will be granted for each course hour taught. Credit will be granted for only the first time a course is taught.
(c) Preprogrammed materials. Preprogrammed educational materials are noninteractive and may be presented in any form of printed or electronic media. A maximum of six credit hours may be claimed in any two-year reporting period for completion of preprogrammed educational materials. The materials must be obtained through education offered by an approved provider listed in WAC 246-935-290, and must require successful completion of an examination or assessment.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-295, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20.]


PDF246-935-305

Veterinary technician suicide prevention education.

A licensed veterinary technician or a retired active licensed veterinary technician shall complete a board-approved, one-time training in suicide prevention that is at least three hours in length. Training must include suicide awareness and prevention, mental health and well-being, and imminent harm by lethal means.
(1) This training must be completed by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after July 1, 2022, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later.
(2) The board accepts only courses that are listed on the board's website.
(3) Training completed between June 11, 2020, and June 30, 2022, that meets the requirements of subsection (2) of this section, is accepted as meeting the one-time training requirement of this section.
(4) The hours spent completing the training in suicide prevention under this section count toward meeting applicable continuing education requirements for veterinary technician license renewal.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.92.280, and 2020 cc 229 and 76. WSR 22-11-062, § 246-935-305, filed 5/16/22, effective 6/16/22.]


PDF246-935-307

Veterinary technicians health equity continuing education training requirements.

(1) Veterinary technicians must complete a minimum of two hours in health equity continuing education training every four years by complying with WAC 246-12-800 through 246-12-830.
(2) This training must be completed by the end of the second full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2024, or the second full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later.
(3) The hours spent completing health equity continuing education under this section count toward meeting applicable continuing education requirements for veterinary technician license renewal.
(4) The board may randomly audit up to 25 percent of licensed veterinary technicians every two years for compliance after the license is renewed as allowed by WAC 246-12-190.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030, 18.130.040, 43.70.613, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-02-022, § 246-935-307, filed 12/21/23, effective 1/21/24.]


PDF246-935-310

Exceptions.

The board may excuse from or grant an extension of continuing education requirements to a licensed veterinary technician due to illness or other extenuating circumstances.
Licensees seeking an extension must petition the board, in writing, at least thirty days prior to the end of the reporting period.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030. WSR 20-04-027, § 246-935-310, filed 1/28/20, effective 2/28/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-20-126, § 246-935-310, filed 10/1/08, effective 11/1/08.]


PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF LEGEND DRUGS, NONLEGEND DRUGS AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

PDF246-935-400

Citation and purpose.

As provided in RCW 18.92.013, the purpose of WAC 246-935-400 through 246-935-440, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, is to define and clarify nondiscretionary functions used in preparing, and administration of, legend drugs, nonlegend drugs, and controlled substances that may be delegated by a veterinarian to a licensed veterinary technician. The supervising veterinarian shall have legal responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of the animal patient which the licensed veterinary technician serves. The supervising veterinarian shall delegate animal health care tasks only if the licensed veterinary technician is qualified to perform the task and the task is not precluded by the medical condition of the animal patient.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.013. WSR 10-06-086, § 246-935-400, filed 3/1/10, effective 4/1/10.]


PDF246-935-410

Definitions.

The definitions in this section apply throughout WAC 246-935-400 through 246-935-440 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
"Administer" means the direct application of a drug whether by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or any other means, to the body of a patient.
"Controlled substance" means a drug, substance, or immediate precursor included in Schedules I through V as set forth in federal or state laws, or federal or pharmacy quality assurance commission rules.
"Deliver" or "delivery" means the actual, constructive, or attempted transfer from one person to another of a legend drug or controlled substance, whether or not there is an agency relationship.
"Legend drugs" means any drugs which are required by state law or regulation of the pharmacy quality assurance commission to be dispensed on prescription only or are restricted to use by practitioners only.
"Preparing" includes the proper selection, measuring, labeling, or packaging necessary to prepare a prescription or order from a licensed veterinarian for delivery.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030(2). WSR 14-13-016, § 246-935-410, filed 6/6/14, effective 7/7/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.013. WSR 10-06-086, § 246-935-410, filed 3/1/10, effective 4/1/10.]


PDF246-935-420

Delegated nondiscretionary functions used in preparing, and the administration of, legend drugs, nonlegend drugs and controlled substances.

Nondiscretionary functions, tasks or actions used in preparing, and the administration of, legend drugs, nonlegend drugs and controlled substances, delegated orally or in writing by the supervising veterinarian to the licensed veterinary technician are:
• Accessing the drug;
• Selecting the appropriate quantity;
• Packaging and labeling of the drug;
• Administering the drug to the animal patient; and
• Delivery of the drug to the owner or authorized agent.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.013. WSR 10-06-086, § 246-935-420, filed 3/1/10, effective 4/1/10.]


PDF246-935-430

Controlled substance storage and records.

(1) Under WAC 246-933-320, it is the responsibility of a licensed veterinarian to assure that:
(a) All controlled substances are maintained in a locked cabinet or other suitable secure container according to federal and Washington state laws;
(b) Controlled substance records are readily retrievable, according to federal and Washington state laws. Records shall be maintained in sufficient detail to account for the receipt, use, and disposition of all controlled substances.
(2) A licensed veterinary technician shall ensure that proper storage and records of controlled substances are maintained during the performance of delegated functions related to controlled substances.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.013. WSR 10-06-086, § 246-935-430, filed 3/1/10, effective 4/1/10.]


PDF246-935-440

Maintenance of patient medical records.

The licensed veterinary technician shall include sufficient information in the patient medical record to document the care and treatment provided by the licensed veterinary technician. The records relating to delegated nondiscretionary functions used in preparing, and the administration of, legend drugs, nonlegend drugs and controlled substances shall, at a minimum, include dosage and route of the drugs prepared, administered, or delivered in response to a prescription or order from a licensed veterinarian.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.92.030 and 18.92.013. WSR 10-06-086, § 246-935-440, filed 3/1/10, effective 4/1/10.]


PDF246-935-990

Veterinary technician fees and renewal cycle.

(1) Licenses must be renewed every year on the practitioner's birthday as provided in chapter 246-12 WAC, Part 2.
(2) The following nonrefundable fees will be charged:
Title of Fee
Fee
Initial state license
 
 
State jurisprudence examination (initial or retake)
$160.00
 
Application
110.00
 
UW online access surcharge (HEAL-WA)
16.00
License renewal
 
 
Renewal
75.00
 
UW online access surcharge (HEAL-WA)
16.00
 
Late renewal penalty
80.00
 
Expired license reissuance
80.00
Duplicate license
10.00
Verification of license
25.00
[Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.112, 43.70.250, 43.70.280, and 2019 c 140. WSR 20-08-066, § 246-935-990, filed 3/26/20, effective 7/1/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.110, 43.70.250, and 2011 1st sp.s. c 50. WSR 11-20-092, § 246-935-990, filed 10/4/11, effective 12/1/11. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.250 and 2007 c 235. WSR 08-10-095, § 246-935-990, filed 5/7/08, effective 6/7/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.250, [43.70.]280 and 43.70.110. WSR 05-12-012, § 246-935-990, filed 5/20/05, effective 7/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.250, 2001 2nd sp.s. c 7 and RCW 18.92.125. WSR 01-23-101, § 246-935-990, filed 11/21/01, effective 1/21/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.280. WSR 98-05-060, § 246-935-990, filed 2/13/98, effective 3/16/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.250. WSR 93-14-011, § 246-935-990, filed 6/24/93, effective 7/25/93; WSR 92-07-036 (Order 252), § 246-935-990, filed 3/10/92, effective 4/10/92. Statutory Authority: RCW 43.70.040. WSR 91-02-050 (Order 122), § 246-935-990, filed 12/27/90, effective 1/31/91.]