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ARRT Radiography Certification Examination Practice Test

177 questions available

The ARRT Radiography Certification Examination is the nationally recognized standard for assessing the competency of entry-level radiologic technologists in the United States. Administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), this comprehensive examination validates that candidates possess the essential knowledge and skills required for safe and effective patient care in diagnostic imaging. Certification signifies mastery across five core domains: Equipment Operation and Maintenance, Image Production and Evaluation, Patient Care and Education, Radiation Protection and Radiobiology, and Radiographic Procedures. Earning the R.T.(R) credential is not merely an academic achievement; it is a professional license to practice, mandated by most states and preferred by healthcare employers nationwide. It demonstrates a commitment to quality, safety, and adherence to the highest ethical standards in medical imaging, directly impacting patient outcomes and the efficiency of diagnostic departments.

Certification exam
200 Exam questions
3 hours 30 minutes Time Limit
Career Opportunities & Salary
Entry $57,394 - $84,394
Mid-Career $82,394 - $120,394
Senior $117,394 - $172,394
stable market
Why This Certification Opens Doors

Achieving ARRT certification in Radiography is a critical milestone that confers professional legitimacy and significantly enhances career trajectory. It is the primary credential required for state licensure in the vast majority of jurisdictions, making it non-negotiable for employment in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers. Beyond legal compliance, the R.T.(R) designation signals to employers, colleagues, and patients a verified expertise and a dedication to the profession's rigorous standards. Certified technologists often experience greater job security, higher earning potential, and increased opportunities for specialization and advancement into modalities like CT, MRI, or mammography. In essence, this certification is the foundational credential that establishes your professional identity and opens doors to a lifelong career in medical imaging.

Required

education Graduate of an ARRT-recognized radiography education program; ethics review required
Exam Blueprint

Each domain is weighted to match the real certification exam, so a full practice simulation predicts your result.

01Procedures
35%
02Image Production
32%
03Safety
24%
04Patient Care
9%
Exam Details R | $200 USD | 3 hours 30 minutes
Exam Code R
Vendor ARRT
Exam Cost $200 USD
Passing Score 75
Time Limit 3 hours 30 minutes
Exam questions 200
Question Types Multiple Choice (single best answer)
Retake Policy Maximum 3 attempts to pass an ARRT exam. After 3 failures, candidate must petition the ARRT board for additional attempts. Full exam fee required for each attempt.
Exam Format Linear fixed-form computer-based test (CBT)
Available In
English
Study Resources
ARRT Exam Content SpecificationsOfficialPDF
ARRT$0
Free downloadable content specifications per credential; lists content categories and subcategories
View
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements to sit for the ARRT Radiography exam?

Candidates must complete an ARRT-recognized educational program in radiography, culminating in at least an associate's degree. They must also comply with ARRT's ethics standards, which include a pre-application review of any legal or disciplinary issues. Formal endorsement from the program director is required. It is crucial to review the most current 'Radiography Candidate Handbook' on the ARRT website for detailed and up-to-date eligibility criteria, as they are subject to change.

How is the exam structured, and what is the passing score?

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with 20 being unscored pilot questions. Candidates have 3.5 hours to complete the test, which is administered via computer at Pearson VUE testing centers. The scaled passing score is 75 on a scale of 1-99. It is important to understand that this is a scaled score, not a percentage, and is based on the difficulty of the questions. The exam uses adaptive testing methods, meaning question difficulty may adjust based on performance.

How often do I need to renew my ARRT certification?

ARRT certification is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Renewal requires completion of Continuing Education (CE) requirements-24 CE credits every two years-and adherence to the ARRT Standards of Ethics. Every ten years, certified technologists must also meet the Continuing Qualification Requirements (CQR), which involves a structured professional profile and, if selected, an assessment to ensure ongoing competency.

Can I work as a radiologic technologist without ARRT certification?

In most states, no. The majority of states require ARRT certification as a prerequisite for obtaining a state license to practice (often called 'licensure by credential'). A few states have their own licensing exams, but ARRT certification is the most widely accepted and often simplifies the licensure process. Employers in all states strongly prefer or require ARRT certification as it is the national standard for quality and safety.

What is the best way to prepare for the exam?

Successful preparation is multifaceted. Start with the official ARRT Content Specifications for Radiography, which is the exam blueprint. Utilize comprehensive review textbooks, online question banks, and structured review courses. Consistently taking timed practice tests is critical for building stamina and identifying knowledge gaps. Forming study groups with peers can also be highly effective. Most importantly, create and adhere to a structured, long-term study plan that covers all five major content domains.

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