Top 10 Vascular Technician Certifications

Certifications demonstrate a vascular technician's knowledge and skills in the field, which is essential for success in the job market. Certified vascular technicians are seen as more knowledgeable and experienced than non-certified technicians, making them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certifications provide recognition of a technician’s expertise and can help them stand out from other applicants. Certifications also ensure that a technician meets national standards of practice and ethics, which is important to both employers and patients alike. Finally, certified vascular technicians may be eligible for higher pay or additional job opportunities due to their certification status.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Vascular Technicians and explain how they can help further a vascular technician's career.

What are Vascular Technician Certifications?

Vascular technician certification is a certification that is earned through completing an accredited program and passing a comprehensive examination. This certification recognizes an individual's knowledge and skills in performing vascular ultrasound procedures, collecting data, and recording information. Vascular technicians are responsible for evaluating the condition of patients’ arteries and veins using specialized ultrasound technology.

Having a vascular technician certification can help individuals demonstrate to potential employers that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a vascular technician. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates for open positions. Additionally, having this certification may make an individual eligible for advancement opportunities within their current organization or to gain access to more job opportunities with other organizations. Furthermore, holding this certification may enable an individual to earn higher wages than those without it. Finally, having this certification can give an individual a sense of accomplishment and pride in their career choice.

Pro Tip: When obtaining vascular technician certification, be sure to research the various certifying organizations and their requirements for certification. Each organization may have different requirements and qualifications for certification, so make sure you are familiar with the specific requirements of each organization before applying.

Related: What does a Vascular Technician do?

Top 10 Vascular Technician Certifications

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

1. Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)

A Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. RVTs use ultrasound and other imaging modalities to evaluate blood vessels, diagnose and treat vascular diseases, and perform non-invasive procedures. They also provide patient education on lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing vascular disease.

To become an RVT, an individual must have completed an accredited vascular technology program and passed the national certification examination administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The program typically takes two years to complete and includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathology, medical terminology, diagnostic imaging techniques, instrumentation, patient care, ethics, and safety.

The cost of becoming an RVT varies depending on the school attended. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $15000-$30000 for a two year program. In addition to tuition costs there may be additional fees such as lab fees or books.

2. Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS)

Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS) is a certification program for vascular technologists. It is offered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The RVS certification demonstrates that an individual has met the highest level of professional standards in vascular technology and has achieved the highest level of competency in their field.

The RVS certification requires passing a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge and skills related to vascular technology. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, instrumentation, patient care, and medical terminology. The practical portion tests hands-on skills related to ultrasound imaging techniques and equipment operation.

It takes approximately 6 months to complete the requirements for the RVS certification. Candidates must first pass the ARDMS’s general sonography examination before taking the RVS specialty examination. After completing both exams, candidates must submit documentation showing proof of at least one year of clinical experience in vascular technology before they can be awarded their certification.

The cost of becoming an RVS certified varies depending on the number of exams taken and any additional fees associated with them. Typically, it costs around $400-$500 to become certified as an RVS.

3. Certified Vascular Technician (CVT)

A Certified Vascular Technician (CVT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. The CVT performs non-invasive vascular testing, such as Doppler ultrasound, to evaluate blood flow in the arteries and veins. They also assist physicians with more invasive procedures, such as angioplasty or stenting.

To become a Certified Vascular Technician, you must complete an accredited two-year program in vascular technology. This program includes courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and other related topics. After completing the program, you must pass an exam administered by either the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

The cost of becoming a Certified Vascular Technician can vary depending on where you take your classes and which certification exam you take. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 for tuition and fees associated with the program. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the certification exams that range from $200 to $500 depending on which organization administers it.

4. Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)

Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) is a certification program for cardiovascular technologists, technicians and nurses. RCIS certification is offered by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), which is an independent credentialing organization dedicated to setting standards in cardiovascular care.

The RCIS certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in invasive cardiovascular technology. It also provides employers with an objective measure of the quality of their staff’s competency in this field.

In order to become certified as an RCIS, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, imaging techniques, instrumentation and equipment operation, hemodynamics, and pharmacology. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible to take the RCIS exam, applicants must meet certain education or experience requirements. These include either completing an accredited program in cardiovascular technology or having at least two years' full-time experience in the field within the past five years.

The cost of taking the RCIS exam varies depending on whether you are a CCI member or not. For non-members, it costs $400; for members it costs $350. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with taking the exam such as application fees and late registration fees.

Once you have successfully passed the RCIS exam, your certification will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires continuing education credits and retaking the exam every three years if necessary.

5. Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)

Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) is a certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of echocardiography. The RCS credential is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). To become an RCS, applicants must meet certain educational and clinical experience requirements and pass an examination administered by ARDMS.

The educational requirements for obtaining the RCS include completion of a CAAHEP-accredited program in cardiac sonography or its equivalent, as well as completion of a minimum of two years of full-time work experience in cardiac sonography. Clinical experience must be obtained within the last five years prior to application.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, instrumentation, patient care and safety, image acquisition, analysis and reporting. The exam also includes 10 case studies that require interpretation from images.

To apply for the exam, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of clinical experience to ARDMS. The cost of the application fee is $200 plus any applicable taxes or fees. Once approved, applicants can register to take the exam at their nearest Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of the exam is $400 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

It typically takes around four to six weeks to receive results after taking the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their RCS certificate from ARDMS which will be valid for three years from the date it was issued.

6. Certified Peripheral Vascular Sonographer (CPVS)

Certified Peripheral Vascular Sonographer (CPVS) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of sonographers who specialize in performing peripheral vascular ultrasound studies. The CPVS credential is offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

To become certified, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Possess an ARDMS-approved credential in either Abdomen, OB/GYN or Cardiac Sonography
• Pass the CPVS exam administered by ARDMS
• Have at least one year of clinical experience in peripheral vascular ultrasound.

The CPVS exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The cost of the exam is $350 USD.

7. Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of sonographers in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. It is awarded by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

To become an RDMS, individuals must meet certain educational and clinical experience requirements and pass an exam administered by the ARDMS. The exam consists of two parts: a general physics and instrumentation section and a specialty section that tests knowledge specific to the individual's chosen specialty.

The amount of time it takes to get an RDMS certification depends on the individual's background and experience in sonography. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to prepare for and complete all of the necessary requirements.

In order to get an RDMS certification, individuals must first complete an accredited ultrasound program or equivalent training program approved by ARDMS. After completing their education, they must then pass both parts of the ARDMS exam. Once these steps are completed, individuals will receive their RDMS certification from ARDMS.

The cost for obtaining an RDMS certification varies depending on factors such as which specialty you choose and what type of credentials you already have. Generally speaking, it can range from around $500-$2,000 for application fees, registration fees, study materials, and exam fees combined.

8. Certified Phlebology Ultrasound Technician (CPU-T)

Certified Phlebology Ultrasound Technician (CPU-T) is a certification program designed to provide advanced training and credentials to phlebotomists who specialize in ultrasound technology. The CPU-T certification is offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

The CPU-T certification requires successful completion of an accredited educational program and passing of a comprehensive exam. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least one year of full-time experience as a phlebotomist and/or ultrasound technician, or two years of part-time experience in either field.

To get the CPU-T certification, applicants must first complete an accredited educational program. This can be done through a community college or university that offers an associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography, or through an online program. Once the educational requirements are met, applicants can apply to take the ARDMS Certification Exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, instrumentation and safety protocols.

The cost for taking the ARDMS Certification Exam varies depending on the location and type of exam taken. Generally speaking, it will cost between $400-$600 to take the exam. After successfully passing the exam, applicants receive their Certified Phlebology Ultrasound Technician (CPU-T) credential which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

9. Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI)

Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI) is an advanced certification offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). The RPVI certification is designed to recognize physicians who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in interpreting vascular ultrasound images.

The RPVI exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions, which are divided into two sections: anatomy/physiology/pathology and vascular imaging. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must hold a valid medical license and have completed at least one year of post-graduate training in vascular interpretation.

The cost of the RPVI exam is $1,000 USD. The exam can be taken at any ARDMS-approved testing center worldwide. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. Results are typically available within two weeks after completion of the exam.

10. American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)

The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is an independent, non-profit organization that administers examinations and awards credentials in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. It is a globally recognized certification program that validates the knowledge and experience of sonographers. ARDMS certifications are highly sought after by employers, healthcare providers, and patients as they demonstrate a professional’s commitment to excellence in the field of medical sonography.

To obtain an ARDMS certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as completing an accredited educational program, having clinical experience in the specialty area, and passing a rigorous examination. The process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the applicant’s background and experience.

Applicants must first register with ARDMS online or by mail to begin the certification process. Once registered, applicants will receive information about how to prepare for their exam(s). Applicants can then schedule their exam(s) at a Prometric testing center near them. Exams are offered year round and cost $200 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees. Upon successful completion of all exams required for certification, applicants will receive their credentials from ARDMS via mail within 8 weeks of passing their last exam.

In summary, obtaining an ARDMS certification requires meeting certain eligibility requirements such as completing an accredited educational program and having clinical experience in the specialty area; registering with ARDMS; preparing for the exam; scheduling and taking the exam(s); paying applicable fees; and finally receiving credentials from ARDMS upon successful completion of all exams required for certification.

Do You Really Need a Vascular Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and career aspirations. If you want to pursue a career as a vascular technician, then obtaining a certificate is essential. A certificate will demonstrate that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful vascular technician.

In order to obtain a certificate, you must complete an accredited program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training. You may also need to pass an exam in order to receive your certification. After completing the required coursework, you may need to participate in additional clinical experience with real-world patients in order to apply what you have learned. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive your certificate as proof of your qualifications for working as a vascular technician.

Having a vascular technician certificate shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable about the latest technologies and procedures used in the field. It also signals that you understand how to properly use specialized equipment and provide quality care for patients. With a certificate, it is much easier for employers to trust that you possess the skills needed for this highly specialized role. Ultimately, having a certificate can give you an edge over other applicants who do not have one when applying for jobs or promotions within the field of vascular technology.

In conclusion, if you are interested in becoming a vascular technician, obtaining a certificate is essential for success in this field. It ensures that employers know that you have received proper training and can demonstrate your competence with relevant skills and knowledge related to the job description.

Related: Vascular Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Vascular Technician Certifications

1. What certifications do Vascular Technicians need?

Answer: Vascular Technicians typically need to obtain certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

2. How long does it take to become a certified Vascular Technician?

Answer: The length of time needed to become a certified Vascular Technician depends on the individual’s experience, education and training. Generally, it takes around one year to complete all certification requirements.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Vascular Technician?

Answer: Becoming a certified Vascular Technician provides many benefits, including increased job opportunities and higher salaries than non-certified technicians, as well as credibility and recognition in the medical community.

4. How much does it cost to become a certified Vascular Technician?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified Vascular Technician varies depending on the certification agency and its requirements. Generally, it costs between $200 - $500 for application fees and testing fees for ARDMS or CCI certifications.

5. Is there an age limit for becoming a certified Vascular Technician?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for becoming a certified Vascular Technician. The only requirement is that you must meet the eligibility criteria for certification as outlined by your chosen certification agency (ARDMS or CCI).