NAVLE Announces Updated Retake Policy Starting March 2026

A major update is coming to the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), and it’s one that brings clarity—and in many cases, relief—to future test-takers. Beginning with the March 2026 testing window, the NAVLE will implement a new, standardized retake policy that resets and simplifies attempt limits for all candidates.

Under this updated policy, every candidate will receive five fresh opportunities to take the NAVLE, no matter how many times they may have attempted it in the past. This means that any exam taken before December 1, 2025, will not count toward the new five-attempt limit.

The goal behind this change is consistency and fairness. Along with the new attempt reset, the NAVLE will also eliminate all waivers going forward. Historically, some candidates could apply for waivers to exceed the attempt limit, while others could not, depending on jurisdiction. Beginning in 2026, no waivers will be granted, creating a uniform policy across all licensing boards.

For students preparing for the NAVLE, this update offers a clearer path and a level playing field—something especially welcome in the high-stakes world of professional licensing exams.

Read more here: https://www.icva.net/navle/#