Diplomate Classification

Active Diplomate

Active Diplomates have fulfilled all requirements of certification and recertification.  The initial certification period is limited to ten (10) years following successful completion of credentialing and examination procedures.  Successful recertification extends Diplomate status for ten (10)-year periods after the original certification date.  Diplomate status expires ten (10) years after each certification period if recertification is unsuccessful or not attempted.

1. Active Diplomates in good standing have paid all membership fees. They are eligible to vote, serve as officers, Regents, and committee members, and have full rights and benefits of membership.
2. Active Diplomates not in good standing have not paid all membership fees.  They are not eligible to vote nor serve as officers, Regents, or committee members, and do not receive membership rights and benefits.  They are not eligible for recertification until past overdue fees have been paid in full.

Emeritus Diplomate

Emeritus Diplomates are those who have retired or are no longer working as veterinarians.  They are not employed or self-employed as a veterinarian, and do not receive income from any type of activity related to the veterinary profession.  They are eligible to vote and serve as officers and committee members, and have full rights of membership.  They are not required to recertify.  Requests for emeritus status are presented to COR in writing and considered individually.

1. Emeritus Diplomates in good standing have paid all membership fees. They are eligible to vote, serve as officers, Regents, and committee members, and have full rights and benefits of membership.
2. Emeritus Diplomates not in good standing have not paid all membership fees.  They are not eligible to vote nor serve as officers, Regents, or committee members, and do not receive membership rights and benefits.

Honorary Diplomate

Honorary Diplomates are those who have contributed to the development of ABVP.  Veterinarians who have met the eligibility requirements may be nominated by a minimum of two (2) Diplomates in good standing.  A majority vote of the COR is necessary to confer Honorary status.  They are not eligible to vote nor serve as officers, Regents, or committee members but receive all other membership rights and benefits.