VS (ARRT) - Vascular Sonography RT

The Vascular Sonographer (VS) credential is awarded by the board of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). This certification recognizes radiology techs (RTs) in the specialty of vascular sonography. VS RTs work with doctors and other healthcare team members to prepare patients, perform diagnostic tests, and evaluate interventions. They work in various settings from hospitals to doctor’s offices.

A vascular sonographer uses ultrasound machines to view patients’ veins and arteries using high-frequency sound waves. Sonogram results can show organ structure and blood flow, which helps physicians make diagnoses and treat medical conditions.

There are three requirements for the VS-ARRT certification. They are:

• Education: earn an associate degree or higher and complete an ARRT approved education program in the specialty certification area

• Ethics: demonstrate good moral character and notify the board of potential ethics violations

• Examination: pass the specialty certification exam

Cost

• Application $225

• If using NMTCB as a supporting category when applying $450

• Reapplication $200

Test Format

ARRT exams are administered by Pearson VUE Testing centers.

The vascular sonography exam is a timed computerized test. Candidates have three hours and 45 minutes to complete 215 multiple choice test questions. Only 175 test items are scored, the remaining 40 are pilot test questions used to evaluate use on future exams.

Test Results

The VS test results are reported as a scaled score of 1-99. You need a scaled score of 75 to pass.

Here are the steps to become eligible to apply for VS ARRT certification:

1. Visit ARRT to create an account.

2. Complete an ARRT-approved educational program in vascular sonography.

3. Earn an associate degree or higher.

4. Apply for VS certification through the online account.

After completing the education and ethics eligibility requirements, applicants have three years to apply for registration and pass the VS certification examination.

Certified VS-ARRTs must renew their certification every year. Renewal is completed online.

Must complete the Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQRs) within three years of certification. It identifies gaps in learning and creates a long-term educational plan. This plan determines how many Continuing Education credits (CEs) are required every two years.

Renewal Fees

• First discipline: $30

• Renewal with additional AART certifications: $15

• Renewing without an ARRT supporting category (ARDMS): first post-primary discipline $45 and additional disciplines $15.

The ARRT offers resources for exam candidates, including:

• Primary Pathway Handbook

• Postprimary Pathway Handbook

• Didactic and Clinical Competency Requirements (primary pathway)

• Clinical Experience Required

• Education Requirements

• Exam Content

• Task Inventory

The ARRT also offers the following certifications:

• Bone Densitometry RT (BD)

• Breast Sonography RT (BS)

• Computed Tomography RT (CT)

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging RT (MRI)

• Mammography RT (M)

• Vascular-Interventional Radiography RT (VI)

• Cardiac-Interventional Radiography RT (CI)