Laws for microchip implanters

You must have the correct qualifications and have completed a required course to become a microchip implanter.

Only a veterinarian is allowed to microchip a cat or dog younger than 8 weeks, and only if:

  • it will not risk the animal's health
  • they give the person presenting the cat or dog a signed veterinary surgeon's certificate to that effect.

Apply to become a microchip implanter

You will need several qualifications to become an authorised microchip implanter.

Pre-requisite qualifications

Veterinarians must hold a Bachelor of Veterinary Science that can be registered in Queensland or hold an equivalent degree in another state and have completed 1 of the following courses:

  • AVAQ Microchip Implantation course
  • BNIT Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • AIRC Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • AVA Victoria Microchip Implantation course
  • UQ Veterinary Technology Microchip Implantation course
  • UQ BVSc Microchip Implantation course
  • UQ Staff Microchip Implantation course (veterinarians only).

If you do not hold a Bachelor of Veterinary Science that can be registered in Queensland, you must hold 1 of the following qualifications:

  • Advanced Certificate in Veterinary Nursing
  • Animal Nursing Auxiliary Certificate (TAFE Vic)
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Technology
  • Certificate IV in Animal Control and Regulation
  • Certificate III in Animal Studies (RUV30198)
  • Certificate III in Animal Technology
  • Certificate IV in Animal Welfare (Regulation)
  • Certificate III in Captive Animals
  • Certificate IV in Captive Animals
  • Certificate III in Companion Animal Services
  • Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services
  • Certificate III in Kennel & Cattery Practices (CNQ 203)
  • Certificate III in Local Government (Animal Management)
  • Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
  • Certificate in Veterinary Nursing (NZ –Veterinary Association)
  • Enrolled Certificate in Veterinary Nursing
  • Certificate IV Veterinary Nurses (University of Queensland staff only)
  • Bachelor Applied Science (Veterinary Technology – University of Queensland staff)
  • University of Del Tolima – Veterinary and Animal Science Medical Doctor
  • ACMSS00007 – Microchip Implantation for Dogs and Cats Skill Set
  • Certificate in Technology (Veterinary Nursing) (Level 5) NZ

And have completed 1 of the following courses:

  • BNIT Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • AIRC Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • 21478VIC Course in Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • 21955VIC Course in Microchip Implantation of Cats and Dogs
  • 90573NSW Microchip Implantation of Companion Animals
  • 0630A Microchip Implantation
  • UQ Staff Microchip Implantation course (veterinary nurses only)
  • ACMMIC401A Implant Microchip in Cats and Dogs
  • ACMMIC401 Implant Microchip in Cats and Dogs
  • UQ Veterinary Technology Microchip Implantation course

Apply for an authorised implanter number

If you have the necessary qualifications and have completed the required course, you can apply for an authorised implanter number online.

Reviewing a decision

If you are unhappy with a decision about your implanter or registry licence, you can ask that it be reviewed.

Submit your request to our Customer Service Centre by email, fax or post.

Also consider...

  • Last reviewed: 7 Mar 2022
  • Last updated: 24 Nov 2022