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Animal Control Officer License in Tennessee

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Animal Control Officer license in TN. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

NACA Certification Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Animal Control Officer license in Tennessee.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Animal Control Officer training program in Tennessee.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TN application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NACA Certification Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Tennessee licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in TN. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Animal Control Officer in Tennessee involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by TN. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the NACA Certification Exam. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the Tennessee state licensing portal.

Requirements

Before applying for a Animal Control Officer license in Tennessee, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. TN requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the NACA Certification Exam is a non-negotiable requirement in Tennessee.

Fees & Costs

Tennessee sets the Animal Control Officer license application fee at $150. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in TN. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Tennessee typically ranges from $150 to $350.

License Fee Calculator — Animal Control Officer in Tennessee

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Your Animal Control Officer license in Tennessee must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in TN is $75. Tennessee requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in TN can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Animal Control Officer in TN

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Tennessee requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Animal Control Officer in Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. TN has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Tennessee also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Animal Control Officer professionals.

Document Checklist — Animal Control Officer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Tennessee Animal Control Officer License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts TN Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize TN Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts TN Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize TN Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Tennessee

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Nashville

500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243

(615) 741-3449

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Memphis

125 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 576-6000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Knoxville

400 Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902

(865) 215-2000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Chattanooga

101 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 643-7800

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Clarksville

1 Public Square, Clarksville, TN 37040

(931) 645-7444

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Tennessee Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Tennessee state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.