Top 11 MRI Technician Certifications

Certifications are an important way for MRI Technicians to demonstrate their competency and knowledge in their field. They can help differentiate a technician’s experience and qualifications from other job candidates, which can make them more attractive to potential employers. Certifications also serve as a way to verify that the technician has a certain level of skill and proficiency in the operation of MRI machines. Additionally, certifications can provide MRI Technicians with professional recognition and respect within the industry, which can lead to better pay and job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for MRI Technicians and explain how they can help advance a mri technician's career.

What are MRI Technician Certifications?

MRI Technician Certification is a type of professional certification that is earned by individuals who have completed the necessary educational requirements and passed an exam to become certified. This certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment. With this certification, MRI technicians can demonstrate their expertise in MRI technology and show employers that they are qualified for the job.

Having MRI Technician Certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for a position as an MRI technician. It also provides assurance to employers that those they hire are knowledgeable and competent in their field. Additionally, having this certification may qualify MRI technicians for higher pay or increased responsibility within their positions. Finally, having this certification allows MRI technicians to stay up-to-date on the latest advances in MRI technology so they can provide better care to patients.

Pro tip: Make sure to research the specific requirements for MRI technician certification in your state or region before beginning any certification program. Different states and regions may have different requirements for certification, so it’s important to do your due diligence and ensure you meet all criteria for certification.

Related: What does an MRI Technician do?

Top 11 MRI Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to MRI Technicians today.

1. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a professional certification organization that provides credentialing services to radiologic technologists, medical imaging professionals, and radiation therapists. The ARRT works to ensure the highest standards of patient care by providing rigorous certification exams and continuing education requirements for its members.

To become certified by the ARRT, an individual must meet specific educational requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. The educational requirements vary depending on the type of certification sought. For example, individuals seeking certification in radiography must have completed an accredited program in radiography or have equivalent experience in the field.

The ARRT exam is administered twice a year and consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, physics, radiation protection, imaging procedures, and patient care. The exam typically takes four hours to complete and costs $200 for first-time applicants. After passing the exam, individuals are granted initial certification which is valid for two years. To maintain their credentials, they must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

In addition to the initial fee for taking the exam, there are also annual fees associated with maintaining ARRT certification. These fees vary depending on the type of certification held but generally range from $50-$100 per year.

2. American College of Radiology (ACR) Certification

The American College of Radiology (ACR) is a professional medical society that provides certification for radiologists and other professionals in the field of radiology. ACR Certification is the highest level of accreditation available to radiologic technologists, radiologists, and radiation oncologists who demonstrate expertise in their respective fields.

To become certified by ACR, an individual must pass a written examination and complete a clinical practicum. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, physics, imaging technology, patient care and safety, quality assurance, and ethics. The clinical practicum consists of hands-on experience in the use of imaging equipment and techniques.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for ACR Certification. Candidates must first complete an accredited program in radiologic technology or radiation oncology before applying for the certification exam. After completing the program, candidates can apply for the exam through the ACR website or by mail.

The cost of taking the ACR Certification exam varies depending on location and type of exam taken; however, it generally ranges from $400 to $600 per exam.

3. National Board for Certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NBCMRI)

The National Board for Certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NBCMRI) is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to perform Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) procedures safely and competently. The NBCMRI is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To qualify for the NBCMRI, applicants must have completed an accredited MRI program and hold an active ARRT certification in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy, or sonography. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as anatomy, pathology, physics, safety, patient care and imaging techniques.

It typically takes approximately three months from the time an application is submitted until results are received. Once approved by the ARRT, applicants are eligible to receive their NBCMRI certificate.

The cost of obtaining the NBCMRI certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges between $500-$1,000. This includes registration fees and exam costs.

4. American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Certification

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is a professional organization that provides certification to radiologic technologists in the United States. ASRT certification is a voluntary process that demonstrates an individual's commitment to providing quality patient care and professional development.

To become certified by ASRT, applicants must meet certain requirements, including completing an accredited program in radiologic technology and passing the ARRT exam. The ARRT exam consists of two parts: a written component and a clinical skills component. The written component covers topics such as patient care, radiation safety, imaging procedures, and medical terminology. The clinical skills component assesses the applicant’s ability to perform basic radiographic procedures correctly.

The process of becoming certified by ASRT typically takes between six months and one year. During this time, applicants must complete their educational program, pass their ARRT exam, and submit all necessary paperwork to ASRT for review.

The cost of becoming certified by ASRT varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay around $400 for application fees and exam fees combined. Additional costs may be incurred if the applicant needs to take additional courses or purchase study materials for the ARRT exam.

5. National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician (CMRI)

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician (CMRI) certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the field of MRI technology. It is designed to validate an individual’s expertise in the use of magnetic resonance imaging equipment, patient safety protocols, and imaging techniques.

To become a certified CMRI technician, individuals must pass an exam administered by the NHA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy & physiology, physics & instrumentation, patient care & safety, and medical terminology. The exam takes approximately 3 hours to complete and requires a score of 70% or higher to pass.

In order to take the CMRI certification exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including: completion of an accredited MRI program or equivalent experience; current CPR certification; and passing a criminal background check. Additionally, applicants must submit a fee for the exam which currently costs $175 for NHA members or $225 for non-members.

Once certified, CMRI technicians are required to renew their credentials every two years by completing 10 continuing education credits related to MRI technology or other related healthcare topics.

6. International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) Certification

The International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ISMRM Certification is an international certification program that recognizes and validates the knowledge and skills of MRI professionals. It is designed to provide a standard of excellence in MRI practice, and to ensure that MRI professionals possess the necessary qualifications to perform their duties safely and effectively.

To become certified by ISMRM, applicants must have completed at least one year of full-time clinical experience in MRI, or have completed an accredited educational program in MRI. They must also pass a written examination administered by ISMRM. The exam covers topics such as safety protocols, image quality assurance, patient care, and technical aspects of MRI.

The process of obtaining ISMRM certification typically takes about three months from the time of application to the time of receiving results. Applicants must submit an application form along with documentation verifying their credentials. Once approved, they will receive instructions on how to register for the exam as well as study materials. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate in the mail within two weeks.

The cost for obtaining ISMRM certification varies depending on location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD to apply for certification and take the written exam.

7. American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) MRI/MRA Specialty Exam

The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) MRI/MRA Specialty Exam is a comprehensive exam that tests the knowledge and skills of sonographers who are seeking certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA). The exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, patient care, safety protocols, imaging techniques, image interpretation, and more. It is designed to assess the competency of those who wish to become certified in MRI/MRA.

The ARDMS MRI/MRA Specialty Exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The exam is administered at computer-based testing centers across the United States. Candidates must register for the exam through the ARDMS website prior to scheduling an appointment at a testing center.

The cost of the ARDMS MRI/MRA Specialty Exam is $400 USD. This fee includes registration for the exam and access to study materials on the ARDMS website. Additional fees may apply if candidates need to reschedule or cancel their appointment at a testing center.

8. Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) MRI Registry Exam

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) MRI Registry Exam is a comprehensive exam designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of individuals who are seeking certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, physics, safety, patient care, and imaging protocols. The exam is administered by CCI and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get the CCI MRI Registry Exam, applicants must first submit an application to CCI which includes proof of education/training in MRI technology or equivalent experience as well as a professional reference from a supervisor or employer. Once approved for the exam, applicants will receive an authorization letter with instructions on how to register for the exam. The cost of the exam is $400 USD.

9. American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety (ABMRS) Certification

The American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety (ABMRS) Certification is a certification program offered by the American College of Radiology (ACR). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the safe use and operation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment. This certification is intended for those who are responsible for MRI safety, including radiologists, technologists, physicists, and other healthcare professionals.

The ABMRS Certification requires successful completion of an online exam that covers topics such as MRI safety principles and practices, MRI safety regulations and guidelines, patient positioning and immobilization techniques, RF exposure management, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

To obtain the ABMRS Certification, applicants must first complete an online application form. After submitting the application form, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam. Once they have completed the exam successfully, they will receive their certificate in approximately two weeks.

The cost of obtaining the ABMRS Certification is $400 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam as well as a one-year membership to ACR's MR Safety Committee.

10. Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) MRI Certificate Program

The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) MRI Certificate Program is designed to provide the necessary qualifications for individuals to become certified Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists in Canada. The program consists of a combination of theoretical and practical components, including classroom instruction, clinical practicum, and an examination.

The program requires a minimum of 1 year to complete, however it may take longer depending on the individual's prior experience and educational background. To get the certificate, individuals must successfully complete all required coursework and clinical practicum requirements as well as pass the CAMRT MRI certification examination.

The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering it, however most programs range from $2,500 - $4,000 CAD.

11. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)-Approved MRI Programs

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides accreditation for educational programs in radiologic technology. The JRCERT is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the American Medical Association as the only agency responsible for accrediting MRI programs in the United States.

The JRCERT’s MRI program accreditation process requires a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of an institution’s MRI program, including its curriculum, faculty, facilities, and other resources. To receive JRCERT accreditation, a program must meet or exceed standards established by the JRCERT Board of Directors.

It typically takes between 8 to 12 months for a program to complete the application process and receive JRCERT accreditation. The first step is to submit an application packet to the JRCERT which includes evidence that the program meets all criteria for accreditation. After submission, a team of evaluators will visit the institution to conduct an on-site review of its MRI program. Once this review is completed, a final report will be submitted to the Board of Directors who will make a decision regarding accreditation status.

The cost associated with applying for JRCERT accreditation varies depending on several factors such as size and complexity of the program being evaluated. Generally speaking, most institutions pay anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 USD in fees related to submitting their application packet and hosting an on-site evaluation team.

In summary, obtaining JRCERT accreditation for an MRI program involves submitting an application packet followed by an on-site review conducted by evaluators from the organization. This process typically takes 8-12 months and costs between $2,000-$5,000 USD in fees related to submitting applications and hosting evaluators at your institution.

Do You Really Need a MRI Technician Certificate?

Whether or not you need an MRI technician certificate depends on your career goals. If you are looking to become a certified MRI technician, then yes, you will need to obtain the necessary certification. Becoming a certified MRI technician is a highly specialized field of medical imaging and requires extensive training and education. An MRI Technician Certificate can help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to perform this role effectively and safely.

The first step in becoming an MRI Technician is to complete a program that offers an Associate’s Degree or higher in Radiologic Technology. This program will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for working with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines and other diagnostic imaging equipment. You will learn about anatomy, physiology, patient positioning, safety protocols, patient care techniques, image manipulation, and more. Additionally, some programs may offer specializations such as CT scanning or electrocardiography (ECG).

Once you have completed your degree program, you must pass a national certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in order to become a certified MRI Technician. The ARRT exam covers topics such as radiation safety procedures, principles of operation for MRI machines, imaging techniques and processes, quality assurance measures for ensuring safe operation of equipment, patient communication methods, and more. After passing the exam and obtaining certification from the ARRT, many states also require that MRI Technicians hold state licensure in order to legally practice their profession within that particular state jurisdiction.

In conclusion, if your goal is to become an MRI Technician then yes – you do need an MRI Technician Certificate in order to work in this field professionally. It is important to note however that obtaining this certification does require dedication and hard work by completing a radiologic technology program followed by passing the ARRT certification exam as well as any applicable state licensing exams required for practice within your desired location.

Related: MRI Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About MRI Technician Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an MRI Technician?

Answer: To become an MRI Technician, you must have either a certificate or associate degree in radiologic technology or have completed a specialized program in MRI technology. In addition, you may need to be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and/or obtain state licensure.

2. How long does it take to become an MRI Technician?

Answer: It usually takes about two years to complete the necessary education and training required for certification as an MRI Technician. This includes completing a formal educational program and passing the ARRT certification exam.

3. Are there any additional certifications I should consider beyond the ARRT certification?

Answer: Yes, depending on your employer’s requirements, you may want to obtain additional certifications such as those offered by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), or other professional organizations.

4. How often do I need to renew my MRI Technician Certification?

Answer: Generally, your certification must be renewed every two years in order to stay current with industry standards. You will need to complete continuing education credits during this time in order to maintain your credentialing status.

5. What is the best way to prepare for the ARRT certification exam?

Answer: The best way to prepare for the ARRT certification exam is by studying materials that are specifically designed for it, such as study guides and practice tests available online or through bookstores and libraries. Additionally, taking courses related to medical imaging can help increase your knowledge of MRI technology and give you a better understanding of how it works.