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The National Examining Board (NEB)
The National Examining Board (NEB) is a body established by the CVMA to administer the NEB veterinary medicine examination process. The NEB also recognizes certified specialists in selected disciplines of veterinary medicine, and participates with the Council on Education (COE) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in a program of accreditation of colleges of veterinary medicine. This accreditation program consists of annual evaluations and regular on-site inspection of the colleges to ensure that they meet the standards established by the COE.
In addition, on behalf of some of the provincial licensing bodies, the NEB reviews and evaluates credentials of graduates of non-Canadian colleges of veterinary medicine who wish to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in Canada. Like the CVMA, however, the NEB does not have power to license or discipline veterinarians.
The CVMA Certificate of Qualification
Candidates who successfully complete the NEB Examination are granted a Certificate of Qualification (CQ). Successful completion of the NEB Examination or receipt of a Certificate of Qualification is a prerequisite to apply for a general license to practice from any of the provincial veterinary licensing bodies of Canada.
Moreover, the licensing authority in any province may require further examinations in addition to or in lieu of those required to obtain a CQ. Applicants are reminded to consult with the licensing body in the province in which they wish to seek a license regarding applicable requirements. Applicants should also note that proof of graduation must be received by the NEB before a CQ will be issued.
Licence to Practice Veterinary Medicine in Canada
In Canada, legislative authority to regulate the practice of professions and trades is a provincial responsibility.
In each province, a licensing body is established by statute. Licensing for veterinary medicine is the responsibility of the provincial veterinary association or a separate licensing body empowered by provincial legislation. While the general requirements to obtain a licence to practice veterinary medicine are similar, specific requirements, including examination requirements, differ from province to province. Individuals intending to apply for a license must correspond directly with the registrar of the licensing body of the province in which they wish to practice, in order to determine the relevant requirements.
The addresses of the licensing bodies in each of the ten provinces can be found here.