Certified Venomous Keeper
Venomous — “hot” — reptiles are the one category the Exchange gates. To reserve or buy a venomous animal you must hold an approved Venomous Keeper Certification: proof of safe caging, an emergency protocol, permits where your state requires them, and real hot-keeping experience. It protects you, the animal, and the hobby.
Sign in to apply
Certification is tied to your Exchange account. Sign in, then complete the application below.
What certification requires
Locked, escape-proof caging
Every venomous animal housed in locked, clearly hot-labeled enclosures in a dedicated, secured room.
Written bite protocol
A posted envenomation emergency plan — nearest treating hospital, species, and antivenom notes on file.
Permits where required
Any state or municipal venomous permit your jurisdiction issues, uploaded and verified before an animal ships.
Demonstrated experience
A real hot-keeping history — species kept, years in, and ideally a mentor or reference we can talk to.
Certification is a safety and compliance measure, not legal advice. Always confirm your own state and municipal laws before acquiring a venomous reptile.