How long does it take to become a veterinarian?
Veterinarians earn a median of about $120,000 a year (about $58/hour) in the US — from around $75,000 entering the field to $205,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 8 years: Doctoral degree (DVM). Expect about eight years of schooling — four undergrad plus a four-year DVM.
Veterinarian salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $75,000 |
| Median (typical) | $120,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $205,000+ |
| Median hourly | $58/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a veterinarian
- 1Earn a bachelor's with pre-vet courses
- 2Complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- 3Pass the NAVLE
- 4Get your state license
What you need
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- NAVLE + state license
Vet medicine is competitive and doctoral-level, with strong pay for specialists.
Veterinarian salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Veterinarian — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a veterinarian?
It usually takes about 8 years. The typical path: Earn a bachelor's with pre-vet courses; Complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM); Pass the NAVLE; Get your state license.
How much do veterinarians make?
The median pay is about $120,000 a year ($58/hour). Most earn between roughly $75,000 and $205,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a veterinarian?
Entry requires: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM); NAVLE + state license. Vet medicine is competitive and doctoral-level, with strong pay for specialists.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.