Veterinarians License in Florida

Florida requires continuing education, a specific course, and passage of a third-party examination including the NAVLE for veterinary licensure. Specific criminal convictions are prohibited for licensure. Florida Statute 474 governs veterinary medicine practice in the state. The Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine, under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, oversees the profession. The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville is the state's AVMA-accredited program and a nationally recognized institution, particularly strong in equine medicine and exotic animal care. Florida's large and diverse animal population drives varied practice needs: the state's extensive equine industry (including thoroughbred racing, polo, and show jumping in Ocala and Wellington), large cattle operations in central and south Florida, and one of the nation's largest companion animal populations all contribute to robust demand. Florida's subtropical climate also creates unique challenges with tropical diseases, tick-borne illnesses, parasites, and exotic and invasive species such as Burmese pythons, requiring specialized veterinary knowledge not commonly needed in other states.