Illinois has enacted House Bill 3360, a new law strengthening occupational title protection for veterinary technicians. With Governor JB Pritzker’s signature, Certified Veterinary Technicians, or CVTs, are now ensured exclusive use of specific professional titles, including “Veterinary Technician” and “Vet Tech.” The legislation requires CVTs to graduate from an accredited program and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam, making qualifications clear and standardized statewide. Professional licenses must now be publicly displayed in clinics, promoting transparency for pet owners. Advocates say these protections will uphold the integrity of the veterinary field while encouraging higher standards of care and professional development.
“At last, CVTs can find comfort knowing that their hard-earned college education and subsequent training will now be protected by law,” says Matt Bussan, DVM, President of the ISVMA’s Board of Directors, Town and Country Animal Hospital, Normal.
“This clarification will provide clear criteria in defining the CVT title, ensuring it is exclusively granted to individuals who have graduated from a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technical Education (CVTEA). Also, it codifies that these individuals have passed their Veterinary Technical National Exam (VTNE), earning their CVT license,” Dr. Bussan said.
“Title protection is a significant step forward for professionally licensed CVTs in Illinois,” says Tracy Porter, CVT, Chicago. “This law not only reinforces the integrity of the veterinary profession but also improves access to high-quality care for both pets and their people. It creates a meaningful incentive for CVT students, credentialed technicians and other vital members of the veterinary team to deepen their knowledge and skills, ultimately raising the standard of care and advancing the profession as a whole.”
“With the law requiring public display of our licenses, clients can now see our credentials, and that we are licensed to expertly care for their beloved pets,” says Kelly Gardella, CVT, Chicago. “This fosters transparency for the public and builds confidence from them in us, the people taking care of their pet, as well as in the entire veterinary profession.”