Massachusetts § 56C - Out-of-state veterinarians; examination; registration; reciprocity

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 56C — Out-of-state veterinarians; examination; registration; reciprocity, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 56C. Out-of-state veterinarians; examination; registration; reciprocity

Section 56C. Any person who is a licensed or registered veterinarian in another state and who has been engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine for at least five consecutive years, and who presents to the board a copy of his certificate of registration or license, certified or attested under seal by the board of examiners or like board of any other state board whose standards in the opinion of the board are equivalent to the requirements of the commonwealth, may, upon application, accompanied by a fee to be determined annually by the commissioner of administration under the provision of section three B of chapter seven, be given a practical examination, without examination on the theory of veterinary medicine, by the board, and if he demonstrates to said board his fitness to practice veterinary medicine, be registered as a veterinarian, and shall receive a certificate thereof; provided, that the applicant intends to remove to and reside in the commonwealth; and provided further, that such other state accords similar privilege to veterinarians registered under the laws of the commonwealth and removing to such other state.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 56C

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 56C cover?

Section 56C ("Out-of-state veterinarians; examination; registration; reciprocity") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 56C?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 56C" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 56C apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.