Top 11 Sonographer Certifications

Certifications for sonographers are important because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and quality assurance. They can also help differentiate a sonographer from other job candidates in the job market, as certifications are recognized signs of expertise and skill. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire certified sonographers because they know that these professionals have achieved a certain level of competency and proficiency in their field. Certifications may also be required by certain employers or state laws. Ultimately, certifications can give sonographers an edge in the competitive job market and help them secure better job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Sonographers and how they can help improve a sonographer's career prospects.

What are Sonographer Certifications?

Sonographer certification is a process by which individuals demonstrate their knowledge and competency in the field of sonography. Sonographers are healthcare professionals who specialize in using ultrasound imaging to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Certification requires passing an exam administered by an accredited organization, such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Through certification, sonographers demonstrate their commitment to quality patient care, safety, and professional standards.

Certification can help sonographers advance in their careers. It validates a practitioner’s qualifications to employers and patients, which may lead to increased job opportunities or higher salaries. Additionally, certification can provide recognition for continuing education credits or specializations in certain areas of sonography. This can lead to further career development and increased job satisfaction. Finally, certification may be required by some states for licensure, depending on the specialty.

Pro Tip: Make sure to thoroughly research the sonographer certification program you are considering. Look for programs that have a proven track record of producing successful graduates and have a good reputation in the field. Also, be sure to check if the program is accredited by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This will ensure that you are receiving the highest quality of education and training possible.

Related: What does a Sonographer do?

Top 11 Sonographer Certifications

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

1. Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) is a professional certification that signifies a high level of competence in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. RDMS certification is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

To become an RDMS, individuals must complete an accredited educational program in sonography and pass two exams administered by ARDMS. The first exam, the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) exam, covers topics such as patient care, physics and instrumentation, abdominal sonography, obstetrical/gynecological sonography, and other related topics. The second exam is a specialty-specific exam that tests knowledge in one of six areas: abdomen/small parts; obstetrics/gynecology; vascular technology; echocardiography; neurosonology; or breast sonography.

The entire process typically takes about two years to complete. In addition to completing an accredited educational program and passing the two exams administered by ARDMS, applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a minimum number of clinical hours in their chosen specialty area and providing proof of continuing education credits every two years.

The cost to become an RDMS varies depending on the individual’s circumstances. The fees associated with taking the SPI and specialty exams are $200 each plus any applicable taxes or fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with completing an accredited educational program such as tuition fees and textbooks.

2. Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)

Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) is a professional certification that demonstrates a sonographer’s expertise in the field of cardiac ultrasound. It is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

To become an RCS, you must have at least two years of clinical experience in cardiac sonography and pass both the RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer) and RCS exams. The RDCS exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient care, imaging modalities, and instrumentation. The RCS exam focuses on advanced echocardiography topics such as Doppler flow analysis, contrast echocardiography, and 3D/4D imaging.

The cost to take the RDCS and RCS exams varies depending on where you take them. Generally, it will cost around $400-$500 for both exams. It can take anywhere from six months to a year to prepare for these exams depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying.

3. Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)

Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) is a professional certification that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of vascular technology. RVT is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become an RVT, one must have completed an accredited educational program in vascular technology and have passed the ARDMS specialty examination in Vascular Technology.

It typically takes two years to complete an accredited program in vascular technology, although some programs may take longer. The cost of these programs varies depending on the school and program chosen. Once the educational requirements are met, applicants can apply to take the ARDMS specialty examination in Vascular Technology. This exam costs $400 USD and consists of multiple-choice questions related to vascular anatomy, physiology, pathology, instrumentation, and other related topics.

Once applicants pass the exam they can apply for their RVT certification from ARDMS. The application fee is $50 USD and includes a background check and verification of credentials. Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants will be awarded their RVT certification.

4. Certified Ultrasound Technologist (CUT)

A Certified Ultrasound Technologist (CUT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to operate ultrasound imaging equipment. This certification is issued by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become a CUT, an individual must complete an accredited program in ultrasound technology, pass the ARDMS certification exam, and maintain continuing education requirements.

The length of time it takes to become a CUT varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to two years to complete the necessary coursework and clinical training required for certification.

To get certified as a CUT, individuals must first enroll in an accredited program in ultrasound technology. Once they have completed their studies, they must then pass the ARDMS certification exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their certificate from the ARDMS and be eligible to practice as a CUT.

The cost of becoming a CUT depends on several factors such as tuition costs for any courses taken, fees associated with taking the ARDMS exam, and any other expenses related to obtaining certification. Generally speaking, it can cost between $2,000-$4,000 to become certified as a CUT.

5. Certified Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (CDMS)

Certified Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (CDMS) is a certification program offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. This certification is available to those who have completed an accredited educational program in sonography and have passed the ARDMS examinations.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CDMS certification. First, you must complete an accredited educational program in sonography, which can include a certificate or associate's degree program. After completing your education, you will need to take and pass the ARDMS examinations. Once you have passed these exams, you will be eligible for CDMS certification.

To get certified as a CDMS, you must apply directly to ARDMS with proof of your educational credentials and passing scores on the required exams. The cost of applying for CDMS certification varies depending on how many exams you are taking and whether or not you are applying for additional certifications such as vascular technology or abdominal sonography. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 to apply for CDMS certification.

6. American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)

The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is a professional organization that certifies sonographers in the United States. It was established in 1975 and is recognized as the leading credentialing organization for sonographers. The ARDMS offers several certification exams to demonstrate competency in specific areas of ultrasound technology.

To become certified by the ARDMS, you must first complete an accredited educational program in diagnostic medical sonography. Once your education is complete, you can apply to take one or more of the ARDMS certification exams. These exams are offered on a regular basis at testing centers across the country. Depending on how many exams you are taking, it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks to complete all of them.

The cost of each exam varies depending on which specialty you are taking and whether you are a member of the ARDMS or not. Generally speaking, non-members pay $300 per exam while members pay $250 per exam. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 for all applicants regardless of membership status.

Once you have successfully passed all of your exams, you will be awarded a certificate from the ARDMS indicating that you have met their standards for competency in diagnostic medical sonography and are now considered a certified sonographer.

7. Fetal Medicine Foundation Level 3 Certification in Fetal Echocardiography

Fetal Medicine Foundation Level 3 Certification in Fetal Echocardiography is a certification program that enables healthcare professionals to become proficient in the use of ultrasound to assess fetal cardiac anatomy and function. The program is offered by the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF), an international organization dedicated to improving the health of pregnant women and their babies through research, training, and education. The FMF Level 3 Certification in Fetal Echocardiography is designed for physicians, sonographers, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals who wish to gain expertise in assessing fetal cardiac anatomy and function.

The FMF Level 3 Certification in Fetal Echocardiography consists of three main components: an online course, a practical examination, and a written examination. The online course covers topics such as fetal echocardiography basics, normal fetal heart anatomy and physiology, congenital heart disease detection and diagnosis, Doppler techniques for assessing fetal cardiac function, and imaging artifacts. The practical examination consists of two parts: an image interpretation session where participants are required to interpret images from actual patient cases; and a hands-on session where participants must demonstrate their ability to perform basic ultrasound scans on patients. Finally, the written examination tests participants’ knowledge of fetal echocardiography principles and practices.

The FMF Level 3 Certification in Fetal Echocardiography typically takes six months or more to complete depending on individual circumstances. To get certified, applicants must first complete the online course before registering for the practical exam. Once they have passed both the practical exam and written exam with a score of 80% or higher they will be awarded the FMF Level 3 Certificate in Fetal Echocardiography.

The cost of obtaining the FMF Level 3 Certificate in Fetal Echocardiography varies depending on country/region but typically ranges from £500-£1000 (approx $650-$1300 USD). This fee includes registration fees for both exams as well as any additional materials needed for study or practice prior to taking the exams.

8. American Society of Echocardiography Certification in Adult Echocardiography

The American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) Certification in Adult Echocardiography is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of echocardiographers who specialize in adult echocardiography. The ASE Certification in Adult Echocardiography is offered to individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of adult echocardiography through successful completion of an examination.

To be eligible for the ASE Certification in Adult Echocardiography, applicants must have completed a minimum of two years of clinical training and/or experience in adult echocardiography, and must have successfully completed an approved educational program or equivalent clinical experience. All applicants must also have current certification from either the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

The ASE Certification Examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, imaging techniques, laboratory values, and patient care. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $400.

To maintain certification status, certified individuals must complete at least 20 hours of continuing medical education (CME) every two years. Additionally, all certified individuals are required to renew their certification every five years by retaking the ASE Certification Examination.

9. American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine Certification in Abdominal Sonography

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) Certification in Abdominal Sonography is a certification program for sonographers who specialize in abdominal imaging. This certification is designed to recognize the expertise and proficiency of those who have demonstrated knowledge and skills related to abdominal sonography.

To obtain this certification, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Have a minimum of two years experience as an abdominal sonographer
• Complete an AIUM-approved course in abdominal sonography
• Pass the AIUM Abdominal Sonography Exam, which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions
• Submit proof of continuing education credits
• Submit proof of current registration with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

The AIUM Abdominal Sonography Exam takes approximately three hours to complete. Candidates are given up to four hours to complete the exam. The cost for the exam is $400 USD.

10. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Certification in Breast Ultrasound

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification in Breast Ultrasound is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of radiologic technologists who specialize in breast ultrasound imaging. This certification is designed to demonstrate competency and expertise in the field of breast ultrasound imaging.

To get the ARRT Certification in Breast Ultrasound, you must first meet the eligibility requirements which include: having an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited school of radiologic technology, completion of at least 24 hours of continuing education related to breast ultrasound imaging within the last three years, and passing the ARRT Certification Examination in Breast Ultrasound.

Once you have met these eligibility requirements, you can apply for the ARRT Certification in Breast Ultrasound online. The application process typically takes about two weeks to complete. Once your application has been approved, you will be required to take and pass the ARRT Certification Examination in Breast Ultrasound. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient positioning and preparation for imaging, image acquisition techniques, image interpretation skills, quality assurance practices and radiation safety principles. You will have up to four hours to complete this exam.

The cost for taking the ARRT Certification Examination in Breast Ultrasound is $200 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. Once you have passed this exam with a score of 75% or higher, you will receive your official certification from ARRT. Your certification will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

11. National Commission for Certifying Agencies Certificate in Neurosonology

The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) Certificate in Neurosonology is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of neurosonology. Neurosonology is the study of the nervous system and its related diseases, disorders, and treatments. The NCCA Certificate in Neurosonology is designed to assess an individual's knowledge, skills, and abilities in this specialized area.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the requirements for the NCCA Certificate in Neurosonology. The program consists of three components: an online course, a written exam, and clinical experience. The online course covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, diagnostic imaging techniques, neurological evaluation methods, and pharmacological management of neurological conditions. The written exam tests an individual's knowledge on these topics. Finally, clinical experience is required to demonstrate competency in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

To obtain the NCCA Certificate in Neurosonology, applicants must first complete all three components mentioned above. Once completed, applicants must submit their application along with supporting documents such as transcripts from their online course or any other relevant certifications they may have obtained. Applicants are then evaluated by a panel of experts who will determine if they meet all the criteria for certification.

The cost for obtaining the NCCA Certificate in Neurosonology varies depending on which institution you choose to take your courses through or if you need to pay for additional materials or exams needed for certification. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on your specific needs and requirements.

Do You Really Need a Sonographer Certificate?

The short answer is: yes. A sonographer certificate is a professional qualification that demonstrates your knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of ultrasound technology. It is a valuable asset to have, whether you are looking for work in the medical field or seeking to advance your career.

A sonographer certificate can help employers assess your qualifications and decide if you are a good fit for their organization. It also provides assurance that you have completed the necessary training to perform ultrasound scans properly and safely. The certificate also serves as proof of your commitment to learning and continuing education within the field.

Having a sonographer certificate can be beneficial in other ways as well, such as providing access to certain job opportunities or higher salaries. Additionally, it can open doors to other career paths related to healthcare or medical imaging technology. In some cases, employers may require certification before they will consider hiring a potential employee.

Ultimately, having a sonographer certificate is an important part of becoming successful in this field. It shows potential employers that you possess the necessary knowledge and experience required for the job, as well as your dedication to continuing education in this area. With the right certification, you can be sure that you will stand out from other applicants and have a better chance of getting hired for jobs that require specialized ultrasound skills.

Related: Sonographer Resume Examples

FAQs About Sonographer Certifications

Q1. What qualifications do I need to become a sonographer?

A1. To become a sonographer, you must have completed an accredited educational program and passed the ARDMS certification exam. You may also need to obtain state licensure depending on where you practice.

Q2. How long does it take to become a certified sonographer?

A2. The length of time required to become a certified sonographer varies depending on your educational background and the type of certification you are seeking. Generally, it takes between 1-2 years to complete the prerequisites and exams necessary for certification.

Q3. What is included in the ARDMS certification exam?

A3. The ARDMS certification exam includes two parts: the Written Registry Examination (WRE) and the Practical Examination (PE). The WRE tests your knowledge of anatomy and physiology, instrumentation, patient care, safety protocols, and other topics related to sonography while the PE tests your technical skills in performing ultrasound examinations on patients.

Q4. How much does it cost to get certified as a sonographer?

A4. The cost of becoming certified as a sonographer varies depending on which certifications you are seeking and which exams you must take in order to obtain them. Generally, the fees for taking both parts of the ARDMS certification exam can range from $350-$600 USD plus any additional fees for study materials or courses needed for preparation purposes.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my sonographer certifications?

A5. Sonographers must renew their certifications every three years by completing 24 hours of continuing education credits (CECs). Additionally, some certifications may require passing a recertification exam every five years in order to maintain active status with that particular organization or specialty area of practice