In the United States and Canada , you have to pass a test ( called the NAVLE or North American Veterinary Licensing Exam ) before you can practice as a veterinarian . In the United States , holders of either degrees are allowed to practice as veterinarians if they succeed in passing national and state board examinations , and after passing three veterinary licensing exams - the Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination ( BCSE ) , the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners ' North American Veterinary Licensing Examination ( NAVLE ) , and the Clinical Proficiency Examination ( CPE ) , and a state veterinary law exam , foreign-educated veterinarians may practice as a general practice veterinarian .