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Animal Control Officer License in Virginia

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Animal Control Officer license in VA. 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 Virginia.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Animal Control Officer training program in Virginia.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your VA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NACA Certification Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

To obtain your Animal Control Officer license in Virginia, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Virginia requires all applicants to pass the NACA Certification Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in VA is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

The Virginia licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Animal Control Officer professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the NACA Certification Exam. VA also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Animal Control Officer in Virginia

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

License renewal for Animal Control Officer professionals in Virginia occurs on a 2-year cycle. VA charges a renewal fee of $75 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Virginia at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Animal Control Officer in VA

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

Additional Information

Working as a Animal Control Officer in Virginia offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. VA 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. Virginia 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 Virginia 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) NoneAK does not recognize VA Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize VA Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for VA license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts VA Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize VA Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts VA Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize VA Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts VA Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Virginia

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

Richmond

9960 Mayland Dr, Richmond, VA 23233

(804) 367-8500

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Virginia Beach

2401 Courthouse Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23456

(757) 385-4242

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Norfolk

810 Union St, Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 664-4000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Arlington

2100 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

(703) 228-3000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Roanoke

215 Church Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

(540) 853-2000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Virginia Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Virginia 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.