Here, we’ll learn about sonography credentials, licensing, and certifications.
This article will outline some attestation of competence and the permits you can acquire in this line of work. Additionally, we’ll list a few benefits of obtaining these ultrasonography credentials and possibly how you can get one.
What certification do you need to be an ultrasound technician? Below are some licensure programs.
Ultrasonography Certification
In your journey to becoming a sonographer, you may want to obtain a certification or a field license.
Although most states don’t demand certification from aspiring sonographers, credentials are essential. They’ll prove you’ve acquired the knowledge and skills to work effectively in the industry.
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Understanding Sonography Licensure
A sonography certification is a credential that proves a sonographer’s knowledge, skills, and competence in performing ultrasound and interpreting results.
The attestation of competence is often issued by recognized organizations and based on the different specialty areas of the field. This means there are certifications for obstetrics, abdominal, and breast sonography.
An attestation of competence is critical when looking for work.
Most employers, insurance companies, accreditation agencies, and professional organizations prioritize candidates with such credentials because it validates their acquired knowledge and skills in the field.
You’ll need to meet certain conditions to obtain this document, which we’ll outline later.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Certifications
You can obtain many attestations of competence to bolster your professional standing. Below, we’ll list the ones you can explore, including their requirements.
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Registered in Musculoskeletal (RMSK)
This certification is suitable for those who specialize in musculoskeletal sonography. ARDMS offers the credentials to validate graduates’ expertise in the field.
As noted above, it will prove your knowledge of providing effective and safe diagnostic ultrasound services for the muscular-skeletal system.
You must write a professional exam before being issued this credential.
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Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI)
This certification isn’t a stand-alone, but it can prove you’ve acquired the needed knowledge and competency in sonography. The credential is issued by ARDMS to those who satisfy the
The ARDMS SPI certification validates your foundational knowledge and competency in sonography.
Although it’s not a stand-alone certification, passing the SPI examination is a prerequisite for many other ARDMS certification exams.
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Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)
This is the proper certification for those specializing in vascular sonography. ARDMS offers the RVT certification to candidates who have finished an accredited vascular sonography program.
Practitioners who complete such programs focus on safe diagnostic sonography of the vascular system, which includes the veins and blood vessels.
To qualify for this certification, you’ll need to write and pass the professional exams set by ARDMS. The tests feature questions from different areas of the field.
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Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS)
You can obtain this certification if you graduate from a cardiac-related healthcare field.
The credential is specifically designed for graduates of this discipline. CCI certification means you’ve met the rigorous professional standards set by the credentialing organization.
It certifies that you can safely and effectively provide sonography diagnostic services focusing on examining the heart. RDCS also proves you have specific adult, fetal, and pediatric echocardiography capabilities.
But before receiving this document, you must also write and pass the professional exams.
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Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
The RDMS certification is intended for graduates of diagnostic medical sonography. ARDMS also offers it to sonographers who have finished an accredited program.
The credential proves you’ve acquired specialized knowledge to provide diagnostic patient care services using ultrasound. Before receiving this credential, you may also write a professional exam.
About Sonography Licensure
There’s a difference between a sonography license and a certification.
A license provides legal permission from the state to practice in a particular profession. However, certification proves you’ve acquired the needed knowledge and experience in an area of the field.
Sonography licensure is a credential given to certified sonographers that allows them to work unrestricted. However, only four states currently mandate licensure for medical sonographers: New Mexico, North Dakota, New Hampshire, and Oregon.
Certain conditions must be met before applying for sonography licensure.
These include completing an accredited sonography course, current certification from a recognized agency, and passing a criminal background check. Once you obtain this credential, you must renew it every two years.
To renew your license, you’ll also need to meet certain conditions. These include applying for recertification, proof of continued certification, and payment of nonrefundable fees.
Sonography License Requirements
As noted above, you must meet specific requirements to qualify for sonography certification and license. One is to acquire formal education and training at an accredited institution.
After completing your studies, you’ll need to choose an area of specialty and gain relevant experience in the field, which takes at least a year.
After acquiring the necessary education, training, and experience, you’ll also need to obtain one of the certifications above.
The credentials are given to students who successfully pass the national board exams set by ARDMS.
Sonography Certification Costs
Sonography certification and license are not free. You must pay for them out of pocket.
Regardless of your choice of specialty area, sonography certification costs around $200. You’ll spend the money on the credentialing agency.
Meanwhile, the renewal fee is $60 per year.
Benefits of Having a Sonography Certification
Obtaining a sonography certification and license has several perks. Although we’ve highlighted a few above, there’s a lot more you need to know.
Certification is an attestation of competence awarded to students who complete a program in this field. The credential helps in career development and growth in various ways.
First, it validates your knowledge and skills by testifying them. Most employers prioritize candidates with certification because they can deliver high-level sonography services.
Moreover, this credential increases marketability and employability in a competitive job market. It will boost your resume and make you a desirable candidate over other applicants.
Certification in this field also adds professional credibility.
It shows employers that you’re dedicated, updated, and proficient in your expertise. Most employers recognize the value of this credential and are willing to pay certified sonographers.
We’ve covered everything you need to know about sonography certification and license except how to register. You can check the registration tips on the official website of your preferred certification.
Until then, you can see the various certifications available for sonographers in the U.S. and their importance.
Additionally, you can learn about sonography licensure. Before obtaining this credential, check if it’s a requirement in your state.