Top 11 Radiologic Technologist Certifications

Certifications are important for radiologic technologists in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge that potential employers look for. Certifications give employers an indication of a radiologic technologist’s competency, experience, and commitment to the profession. In addition, certifications may be required for certain positions or specializations within the field. By obtaining certifications, radiologic technologists can show employers that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high quality patient care.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Radiologic Technologists and explain how these certifications can help enhance their career opportunities.

What are Radiologic Technologist Certifications?

Radiologic technologist certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of radiologic technology. It is awarded to those who have successfully completed an accredited program, passed a comprehensive exam, and met all other requirements set forth by the certifying body. The certification process helps to ensure that radiologic technologists are well-trained and knowledgeable in their field.

Certification provides assurance to employers and patients alike that a radiologic technologist has achieved a certain level of competency in their profession. It also serves as recognition of the individual’s commitment to continuing education, which is essential for staying up-to-date on the latest advances in radiologic technology. Additionally, it can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career, as many employers prefer or require certification for certain positions. Finally, having a valid certification may make an individual eligible for higher salaries or more desirable job opportunities.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest radiologic technologist certification requirements, as they can change over time. Additionally, take advantage of any available continuing education opportunities so that you can remain certified and keep your skills sharp.

Related: What does a Radiologic Technologist do?

Top 11 Radiologic Technologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Radiologic Technologists today.

1. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a professional organization that certifies and registers radiologic technologists. It is the largest credentialing organization in the field, and its certification is recognized by employers across the United States.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and adhere to ARRT’s Code of Ethics. The process typically takes between six months and one year to complete.

To get started, applicants must first complete an accredited program in radiologic technology or nuclear medicine technology from an institution recognized by ARRT. They must also complete at least 24 hours of continuing education credits every two years to maintain their certification.

Once the educational requirements are met, applicants can register for the ARRT certification exam. This exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient care, imaging procedures, radiation safety, and quality assurance. The cost of the exam is $200 for members of ARRT and $250 for non-members.

After passing the exam, applicants will receive their ARRT certification card in the mail within four weeks. This card serves as proof that they have met all of ARRT’s standards for radiologic technologists and are qualified to practice in their chosen field.

2. American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Certification

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Certification is a voluntary certification program for radiologic technologists. It is intended to demonstrate the highest level of professional competency and knowledge in the field of radiologic technology.

To obtain ASRT certification, an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements and pass an examination. The eligibility requirements include having completed an accredited educational program in radiologic technology or equivalent, having completed at least one year of clinical experience as a radiographer, and meeting any other state-specific requirements.

The examination consists of two parts: a written multiple-choice exam and a practical performance exam. The written exam covers topics such as radiation safety, imaging procedures, patient care, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, physics and instrumentation, positioning techniques, and quality assurance/quality control. The practical performance exam assesses the applicant’s ability to perform various imaging procedures with accuracy and precision.

The time it takes to become certified varies depending on the individual’s prior experience and education level. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

In terms of cost, there are several fees associated with obtaining ASRT certification including application fees ($50), examination fees ($200), renewal fees ($50 every 5 years), and late renewal fees ($100).

Overall, obtaining ASRT certification is beneficial for those who want to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in radiologic technology by demonstrating their knowledge base through an independent assessment process.

3. Certified Radiology Technician (CRT) Certification

Certified Radiology Technician (CRT) Certification is a voluntary certification offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). It is designed to recognize and reward excellence in radiologic technology. The CRT credential is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for competent practice in radiologic technology.

The process of obtaining CRT certification typically takes about six months. First, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, which include completing an ARRT-approved educational program and passing the ARRT certification examination. After meeting these requirements, applicants can apply for CRT certification through the ARRT website or by mail.

The cost of obtaining CRT certification varies depending on the applicant's location and type of application. Generally speaking, it costs between $50–$100 to apply for CRT certification, plus an additional fee for taking the ARRT exam ($125–$250). In addition, there may be fees associated with renewing or maintaining your CRT certification every two years ($75–$150).

4. Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) Certification

Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) Certification is a certification program for nuclear medicine technologists. It is designed to ensure that nuclear medicine technologists have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively perform their job duties. The NMTCB certification process includes a written exam, clinical practicum, and professional portfolio review.

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as radiation safety, imaging techniques, instrumentation, pharmacology, patient care, and quality assurance. The clinical practicum requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of patient care and radiation safety through a series of practical scenarios. Finally, the professional portfolio review assesses candidates’ work experience and education history.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the NMTCB certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with all required documents such as transcripts and proof of work experience. Once approved by the NMTCB board of directors, applicants will be sent instructions on how to register for the written exam. After passing the written exam, applicants must complete the clinical practicum before their professional portfolio can be reviewed by the board of directors for final approval.

The cost for NMTCB certification varies depending on several factors including location and type of program chosen (e.g., online or in-person). Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 USD for initial certification plus additional fees for renewal every two years thereafter ($100-$200 USD).

5. Cardiovascular Interventional Technology (CVIT) Certification

Cardiovascular Interventional Technology (CVIT) Certification is a professional certification program for individuals who work in the field of cardiovascular interventional technology. It is designed to ensure that those working in this field have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to patients. The certification is offered by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in cardiovascular care through credentialing programs.

The CVIT certification requires applicants to complete an online application, pass a written exam, and demonstrate proficiency in performing specific clinical tasks. The exam consists of both multiple choice and essay questions, with topics covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, instrumentation, patient safety and other related topics. Applicants must also have at least one year of experience working in the field of cardiovascular interventional technology before they can apply for the certification.

The cost of obtaining CVIT certification depends on the applicant's level of experience and type of exam taken. For those who are taking the basic exam without any prior experience, it will cost approximately $300 USD; however, if you have more than one year of experience or take an advanced exam, it may cost up to $600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with renewing your certification every three years.

In general, it takes between four to six weeks from when you submit your application until you receive your results from CCI. Once you have passed all parts of the examination process and been approved for certification by CCI, you will receive your official certificate in the mail within two weeks after passing the exam.

Overall, obtaining CVIT certification is an important step towards ensuring that individuals working in this field are knowledgeable about their profession and able to provide safe and effective care for patients.

6. Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Certification

Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who specialize in medical imaging. It is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and is recognized by employers throughout the United States.

To become certified in DMS, you must complete an accredited educational program and pass two exams administered by ARDMS: a general physics exam and a specialty exam related to your chosen area of practice. The exams are designed to assess your knowledge of sonographic principles, instrumentation, patient care, safety protocols, anatomy and physiology, pathology, and other topics related to the field.

The length of time it takes to become certified depends on how quickly you can complete your educational program and pass both exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one year to three years or more depending on your individual circumstances.

To get started on the path to certification, you must first find an accredited educational program that meets ARDMS’s standards for education in DMS. Once you have completed the program requirements and passed both exams with a score of 75% or higher, you will be eligible for certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which educational program you choose as well as any additional fees associated with taking the exams. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$3,000 or more for tuition plus exam fees which range from $200-$600 per exam.

7. Computed Tomography (CT) Certification

Computed Tomography (CT) Certification is a certification program designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for a healthcare professional to safely and effectively operate CT scanners. CT scanners are advanced imaging devices used to diagnose and treat medical conditions. To become certified, an individual must complete an approved educational program, pass a written exam, and demonstrate proficiency in operating a scanner.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of program chosen and the individual’s experience level. Most programs require at least 40 hours of instruction and can take up to two years or more to complete. The cost of certification varies depending on the program chosen but can range from $500-$3,000 or more.

To get certified, individuals must first complete an approved educational program that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, physics, radiation safety, patient care, operation of CT equipment, quality assurance/control measures, and other related topics. After completing the coursework requirements for certification, individuals must then pass a written exam administered by either the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the American College of Radiology (ACR). Finally, individuals must demonstrate proficiency in operating a CT scanner by passing an on-site practical exam given by either ARRT or ACR.

In addition to these requirements for certification, individuals may also need to obtain additional training specific to their job duties such as radiation safety or patient care. This additional training may be required by employers or state regulations.

8. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certification

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a medical imaging technologist’s knowledge and expertise in the field of MRI. This certification is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To obtain an MRI certification, individuals must first complete an accredited program in radiography or radiation technology. After completing the program, they must pass the ARRT's MRI examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to safety, patient care, imaging techniques, equipment operation and quality assurance.

The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $200. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their MRI certification from ARRT. The certification must be renewed every two years by completing 24 hours of continuing education credits and paying a fee of $50 for renewal.

Overall, obtaining an MRI certification requires significant dedication and commitment to learning and maintaining one’s knowledge in this field. It is important for medical imaging technologists to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in MRI technology so that they can provide high-quality care to their patients.

9. Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) Certifications

The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) is a federal law that was enacted in 1992 to ensure that all mammography facilities in the United States meet certain quality standards. The MQSA certification is awarded by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after a facility has met specific requirements, including having its equipment and personnel inspected and approved by the FDA.

To become certified, a facility must submit an application to the FDA, which includes information about its personnel, equipment, quality assurance program, and other required documents. The FDA then inspects the facility to make sure it meets all of the requirements for certification. This process typically takes several months to complete.

Once a facility is certified, it must maintain its certification by undergoing regular inspections and making any necessary changes or improvements to meet MQSA standards. Facilities must also pay an annual fee to maintain their certification. The fees vary depending on the size of the facility and range from $125-$1,000 per year.

In summary, getting an MQSA certification requires submitting an application to the FDA and undergoing an inspection process that can take several months. There is also an annual fee associated with maintaining your certification.

10. Radiation Therapy Technology Accreditation Program (RTTAP) Certification

The Radiation Therapy Technology Accreditation Program (RTTAP) is an accreditation program designed to ensure that radiation therapy technology programs meet the highest standards of quality and safety. The program is administered by the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) and is recognized by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

To earn RTTAP certification, a radiation therapy technology program must demonstrate that it meets ASTRO’s rigorous standards for educational quality and patient safety. This includes demonstrating that the program has adequate faculty and resources, provides appropriate clinical training experiences, and adheres to ASTRO’s ethical guidelines.

It typically takes about two years for a radiation therapy technology program to complete the RTTAP certification process. During this time, programs must submit an application to ASTRO along with documentation of their qualifications and training materials. Once approved, programs must then complete an on-site review by ASTRO representatives, who will evaluate the program’s curriculum and facilities as well as interview faculty members and students. If all requirements are met, the program will be awarded RTTAP certification.

The cost of obtaining RTTAP certification varies depending on the size of the program, but can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

11. Vascular Interventional Radiologic Technology (VIR-T) Certification

Vascular Interventional Radiologic Technology (VIR-T) Certification is a certification that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform interventional radiology procedures in the field of vascular medicine. This certification is offered through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To get VIR-T Certification, you must first complete an accredited educational program in radiography or radiation therapy. After completing your education, you must then pass an exam administered by the ARRT. The exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, patient care, imaging physics, radiation safety and protection, and interventional radiology techniques. Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded your VIR-T Certification.

The cost of getting VIR-T Certification varies depending on where you take the exam and any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 for the exam alone. In addition to this fee, there may also be other costs associated with taking continuing education courses or attending conferences related to interventional radiology techniques.

The amount of time it takes to get VIR-T Certification depends on how quickly you are able to complete your educational program and pass the ARRT exam. Generally speaking, it can take up to two years or more depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam and completing any additional requirements needed for certification.

Do You Really Need a Radiologic Technologist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes. A radiologic technologist certificate is a credential that demonstrates an individual has the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to safely and accurately perform medical imaging procedures. This certification is required in most states in order to practice as a radiologic technologist.

In addition to being legally required, a radiologic technologist certificate provides employers with assurance that their staff have received the appropriate training and education needed for the job. This certification also ensures that an individual can properly administer radiation doses to patients while protecting themselves from unnecessary exposure. Additionally, it shows that a person has the critical thinking skills necessary for decision-making during medical imaging procedures.

Finally, having a radiologic technologist certificate helps individuals stay up-to-date on the latest industry standards and guidelines, as well as technological advancements in the field of radiology. This knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to providing high-quality patient care and improving patient outcomes.

In summary, obtaining a radiologic technologist certificate is essential for practicing in this field and demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional excellence. It not only protects both patients and practitioners but also provides employers with assurance that their staff possess the necessary qualifications for performing medical imaging procedures safely and effectively.

Related: Radiologic Technologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Radiologic Technologist Certifications

1. What is a Radiologic Technologist Certification?

Answer: A radiologic technologist certification is an official recognition of your qualifications and experience in the field of radiology. It proves that you have met certain standards set by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and have passed their examination.

2. How do I become certified as a Radiologic Technologist?

Answer: To become certified as a radiologic technologist, you must first complete an accredited educational program in radiography or related field, such as nuclear medicine technology or radiation therapy technology. After completing your program, you must pass the ARRT examination to receive your certification.

3. How long does it take to get my Radiologic Technologist Certification?

Answer: The process varies depending on each individual's educational background and experience, but typically it takes around 6-12 months to complete all the requirements for certification.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Radiologic Technologist?

Answer: Becoming a certified radiologic technologist allows you to demonstrate that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely and effectively with patients in the field of radiology. In addition, many employers prefer to hire individuals who are certified by ARRT due to their higher level of expertise and commitment to quality patient care.

5. How often do I need to renew my Radiologic Technologist Certification?

Answer: You must renew your certification every two years by completing 24 hours of continuing education credits (CECs). Additionally, if you wish to maintain specialty certifications such as CT or MRI imaging, then additional CECs may be required for renewal as well.