Introduction
and
ARDMS
Credentials
The only means of earning an ARDMS credential is by examination.
For the RDMS, RDCS, RVT and RMSKS credentials, applicants must pass
two comprehensive examinations: (1) the Sonography Principles and
Instrumentation (SPI) examination; and (2) at least one corresponding
specialty examination. The examinations may be taken in any order. Additional
credential(s)/specialties can be earned without re-taking the SPI examination.
ARDMS Five Year Rule
Candidates are required to complete both a
physics and instrumentation examination and
a corresponding specialty examination within
fi ve years. Visit ARDMS.org/fi veyearrule to
learn more.
Credential
Earned
Exam
Needed
Corresponding
Specialty Exam
Abdomen (AB)
Breast (BR)
Fetal Echocardiography (FE)
Obstetrics & Gynecology
(OB/GYN)
Pediatric Sonography (PS)
RDMS
Registered Diagnostic
Medical Sonographer
SPI
Sonography Principles
& Instrumentation
Examination
Adult Echocardiography (AE)
Fetal Echocardiography (FE)
Pediatric Echocardiography (PE)
RDCS
Registered Diagnostic
Cardiac Sonographer
SPI
Sonography Principles
& Instrumentation
Examination
SPI
Sonography Principles
& Instrumentation
Examination
SPI
Sonography Principles
& Instrumentation
Examination
Vascular
Technology (VT)
RVT
Registered Vascular
Technologist
Musculoskeletal
Sonographer (MSKS)
RMSKS
Registered
Musculoskeletal
Sonographer
ARDMS Credential Pathways
The ARDMS is developing an ultrasound certifi cate examination for midwifery professionals for
release in Spring 2016. Visit ARDMS.org/mw and sign-up to receive updates.
Application information for the RPVI and RMSK credentialing examinations
may be found in the respective brochures. For comprehensive application
information for all ARDMS examinations, please visit ARDMS.org.
