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ARRT to Open RPA to R.R.A. Pathway

Published on Feb 17, 2017

For a limited time, ARRT will offer Radiology Practitioner Assistants (RPAs) a modified eligibility pathway to earn Registered Radiology Assistant (R.R.A.) credentials. This pathway will open in the near future and will be available through December 31, 2020.

RPA TO R.R.A. REQUIREMENTS

To earn R.R.A. credentials using the temporary RPA eligibility pathway, you must meet the following requirements by December 31, 2020:

  • Be certified as an RPA by the Certification Board for Radiology Practitioner Assistants or have graduated from a Radiology Practitioner Assistant educational program that is based in an educational institution accredited by an ARRT-approved mechanism
  • Be certified and registered with ARRT in Radiography
  • Have at least one year of acceptable clinical experience in radiography, which must be completed after you’ve earned your ARRT credential in Radiography (Clinical experience may be earned concurrent to a radiologist assistant educational program, but cannot be satisfied by the program)
  • Have a baccalaureate degree or graduate degree from an institution accredited by an ARRT-approved mechanism
  • Meet ARRT’s ethic’s requirements
  • Pass ARRT’s R.R.A. examination

The ARRT Rules and Regulations state that candidates must establish eligibility within five years after completing an educational program (for those completing a program prior to 2013) or within three years after completing an educational program (for those completing a program after 2012). However, we will waive this requirement for those using the temporary RPA eligibility pathway.

WHO IS NOT ELIGIBLE?

You cannot use the RPA eligibility pathway if you’ve previously applied to ARRT for R.R.A. certification and registration. There is, however, one possible exception if you've previously applied—you may be able to regain eligibility by repeating the Professional Education Requirements, as described in the ARRT Rules and Regulations. If you would like more information about this exception, call us at 651.687.0048. Choose the option for earning an ARRT credential.

TAKING THE EXAM

We offer the R.R.A. exam twice a year on the second Thursday of January and of July. You’ll have to apply approximately eight weeks before the exam date.

There may be limited spots available for each exam administration, so you are encouraged to apply for certification and registration as early as possible.

Future exam dates are:

  • July 13, 2017 (Postmark your application by May 18, 2017)
  • Jan. 11, 2018 (Postmark your application by Nov. 16, 2017)
  • July 12, 2018 (Postmark your application by May 17, 2018)

HOW TO GET STARTED

In a few weeks, ARRT will announce the opening of the program and the date on which we will begin accepting applications. Until then, learn how to prepare for the R.R.A. credential.

Questions? Contact us at 651.687.0048, then choose the option for earning an ARRT credential.