Requirements for Ultrasound Technician Certification

Ultrasound technician certification is overseen by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Sonographers of many different educational backgrounds may sit for the registry exam, although the prerequisites may vary.

Education

• Diagnostic medical sonography programs are generally two years in length. Two-year allied health programs include one year of classroom work, followed by one year of clinical training in the hospital setting. Accredited sonography programs consist of two years of patient-care education including clinical training.

Clincal Experience

• Graduates of two-year allied health programs must complete an additional 12 months of clinical experience. Graduates of accredited programs do not need to acquire additional experience.

Proof of Education

• Candidates must submit a copy of their official transcripts and certificate or diploma with their registry application.

Clinical Experience Letter

• Allied-health graduates must submit a letter from their supervising physician or sonographer documenting their completion of 12 months of clinical experience. Graduates of accredited programs must submit a letter from their program director indicating completion of the program.

Clinical Verification Form

• Candidates must submit a clinical verification form (provided by the ARDMS) for the desired specialty area.

Registry Exam

• Upon acceptance of the application and required documents, candidates may sit for the registry exam. Successful completion of this exam will result in receiving credentials. General sonographers are Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (RDMS).