Veterinarian License in Missouri
Quick Answer
To become a licensed veterinarian in Missouri, graduate from an AVMA-accredited school, pass the NAVLE and the Missouri jurisprudence exam. The University of Missouri hosts the state's accredited vet school. Missouri's beef cattle, equine, and poultry industries, combined with urban markets in KC and St. Louis, create diverse practice opportunities.
- Exam
- NAVLE + Missouri jurisprudence exam
- Timeline
- 4-8 years (veterinary school) + 3-6 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
Veterinarian license in Missouri
Veterinarian Salary in Missouri
Entry Level
$62,400
Median
$119,640
Experienced
$190,800
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Veterinarian in Missouri.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NAVLE + Missouri jurisprudence exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-8 years (veterinary school) + 3-6 months (licensing).
Veterinarian Licensing in Missouri: What to Know
Missouri requires a DVM degree from an AVMA-accredited school, passage of the NAVLE, and a state jurisprudence examination. The Missouri Veterinary Medical Board oversees licensure. The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in Columbia is the state's AVMA-accredited program, known for its research in comparative medicine, oncology (including the pioneering Comparative Oncology and Epigenetics Laboratory), and food-animal health. Missouri's diverse agricultural economy includes significant beef cattle ranching in the Ozarks and southern regions, hog and poultry production, and a hay and grain sector that supports the broader Midwest livestock industry. The Kansas City and St. Louis metropolitan areas support large companion-animal, specialty, and emergency veterinary markets on opposite sides of the state. Missouri's equine industry is notable, with a strong presence of American Saddlebred and Missouri Fox Trotter breeds, both of which have deep roots in the state's heritage. The state's central location makes it a hub for veterinary continuing education events. Rural areas of southern Missouri and the Bootheel region face persistent veterinary workforce challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Veterinarian license in Missouri?
- The process typically takes 4-8 years (veterinary school) + 3-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Veterinarian license in Missouri?
- You need to pass the NAVLE + Missouri jurisprudence exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Veterinarian requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.