The North American Veterinary Licensing Examination® (NAVLE®), administered by the ICVA since 2000, is a requirement for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in all licensing jurisdictions in the United States and Canada.
Take a moment to explore what the application process involves before you get started.
Your NAVLE Journey
Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in the application process
Learn about how to request accommodations or non-standard testing conditions
Testing Cycles
The NAVLE is available during three (3) annual testing windows and administered during specific testing dates:
|
Testing Window |
Application Period |
Testing Dates |
Approx. Score Release |
|
October – November 2026 |
June 1 – July 15 |
October 12 – November 14 |
December 14 – 25 |
|
March 2027 |
December 1 – January 7 |
March 1 – 20 |
April 19 – May 3 |
|
July – August 2027 |
April 1 – May 7 |
July 12 – August 7 |
September 6 – 20 |
NOTE: All application, eligibility, and accommodations materials must be received by the application deadline — no exceptions. All window dates are fixed, and to ensure fairness and meet strict deadlines, refunds, fee transfers, or extensions of the testing window are not permitted.
Read More Below About the NAVLE
NAVLE: Licensure Exam
The NAVLE is designed to ensure every newly licensed veterinarian meets a baseline standard of knowledge necessary to safely practice veterinary medicine.
NAVLE and Licensing →Questions About the NAVLE?
Visit the FAQ page to find answers to common questions.
NAVLE FAQs →NAVLE: Creation and Scoring
Learn more about how the NAVLE is created and scored.
NAVLE Creation and Scoring →