IMAGING ASSISTANT, MAGNETIC RESONANCE

WORKING AS AN IMAGING ASSISTANT, MAGNETIC RESONANCE 

ARRT is proud to introduce our newest credential: Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance, I.A.(MR)(ARRT). This new credential is designed to support Registered Technologists (R.T.s) in the MR environment. Imaging assistants will play a vital role in: MR Level 2 safety, patient care, patient positioning, and assisting with contrast administration.

As an I.A.(MR), you won’t perform imaging or scanning, but you’ll provide support by preparing patients for the procedure and letting them know what to expect. In this role, you’ll help enhance patient safety, improve workflow, and support technologists in delivering high-quality care.

EARN AN ARRT I.A. CREDENTIAL IN MAGNETIC RESONANCE 

The purpose of this ARRT certification and registration is to recognize individuals who are qualified to perform in the role of Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance. Whether you're interested in beginning a career in medical imaging or you’re already working in this field, below are the resources you'll need to get started. 

Eligibility Requirements  

To apply, candidates must:  

  • Be 18+ years old with a high school diploma or GED  
  • Meet ARRT’s ethics requirements  
  • Complete structured continuing education (CE) and clinical tasks  
  • Be verified by an ARRT certified and registered technologist
  • Finish all requirements within 24 months of applying  
  • The credential is renewable annually with 10 credits of required, discipline-specific continuing education due every two years.  
Learn More About I.A. Requirements

Get Started Earning an I.A. Credential

Click the Create My ARRT Account button to complete a short form, then we'll give you access to set up your Imaging Assistant account. Once you've created an account, you'll have access to your ARRT dashboard.  

Create My ARRT Account
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READ THESE DOCUMENTS

Start by downloading our Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance handbook. It's your guide to applying for and taking the I.A.(MR) exam.

  • Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance Handbook

    •

     Clinical Competency Requirements explain the type and quantity of clinical procedures you'll need to complete for this discipline.

  • Clinical Competency Requirements

    Structured Education Requirements outline the education activity requirements for this discipline.

  • Structured Education Requirements

    •

    Examination Content Specifications outline the topics that appear on our I.A. Magnetic Resonance exams.

  • Examination Content Specifications

    Task Inventory lists the job responsibilities typically required of Imaging Assistants working in Magnetic Resonance.

  • Task Inventory

    • THE IMAGING ASSISTANT DOCUMENTATION TOOL WILL BE AVAILABLE ON AUG. 17, 2026

    You'll use the tool to track your progress on completion of the I.A. requirements. You'll need to:

    • Upload high school or college transcripts, or a copy of your GED completion certificate. (If your name has changed since you finished school, you'll need to include name change documentation.)
    • Establish your clinical verifier(s) (ARRT must review and approve verifiers, which can take several business days).
    • Complete and log your clinical competencies, have your verifier(s) confirm your work, and have your supervisor(s) document that you completed all requirements.
    • Complete and document your structured education activities.
    • Submit your exam application once your documentation is complete.
    GET A JUMP-START 

    Learn how to establish a clinical location, find a verifier, and start documenting your activities before the tool is available.

    Get Started
    Save with the Special Fall 2026 Exam Fee 

    To take advantage of the special one-time fall 2026 exam fee of $75 (regularly $225), you'll need to complete your application during the fall 2026 application period and take the exam during the fall 2026 exam window.

    KNOW YOUR KEY DATES

    • Fall 2026 application deadline: Oct. 14, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. 
    • Fall 2026 exam window: Oct. 15 -Nov. 30, 2026 

    BE READY TO SCHEDULE AND TAKE THE EXAM  

    If you're approved to take the exam:  

    • You must test at a Pearson test center during the Fall 2026 exam window. 

    If you don't take the exam during this period:  

    • Your exam fee won't be refunded. 
    • The missed exam won't count as an exam attempt. 

    Take Action Now  

    1. Mark Aug. 17, 2026 on your calendar to begin documenting your requirements in the Imaging Assistant tool. 
    2. Submit your application by Oct.14, 2026 to qualify for the Fall 2026 exam window and the discounted $75 exam fee. 
    3. Schedule and take your exam at Pearson between Oct. 15 and Nov. 30, 2026. 

    If You Miss the Oct. 14 Application Deadline 

    • You can still apply for the exam. 
    • You'll pay the standard exam fee of $225 and test on or after Jan.1, 2027. 

    I.A.(MR) FAQs

    The health care landscape is evolving—and so are the needs of imaging teams. As MRI scanning services continue to expand rapidly, the demand for trained on-site assistants has become increasingly urgent. Teleradiology and remote scanning capabilities are reshaping health care delivery, making it more essential than ever to have qualified assistants who support patient safety.  

    ARRT developed the Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance credential to:  

    • Support patient safety  
    • Expand educational opportunities for those entering the field  
    • Address workforce shortages by creating a new entry point into medical imaging  

    This initiative aligns with ARRT’s vision: exceptional patient care, provided by qualified professionals.  

    All ARRT’s credentials are built on a foundation of rigorous standards, ethics, and safety:  

    • Developed through a practice analysis with MR technologists, managers, and radiologists  
    • Backed by 100+ years of ARRT credibility  
    • Designed to meet consistent national standards  
    • Includes required ethics education to promote high standards of professional integrity 

    ARRT credentials are nationally recognized, reinforcing public confidence. 

    Earning this credential offers:  

    • Professional recognition in a growing field  
    • Job readiness with less on-the-job training required  
    • Increased earning potential  
    • Career advancement toward roles like MRI technologist  

    The Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance will support R.T.s, not replace them. We understand that change can raise concerns. Here’s what R.T.s should know:  

    • Imaging assistants do not perform imaging or scanning  
    • Imaging assistants free up R.T.s to focus on complex imaging tasks  
    • Imaging assistants help reduce errors and improve patient care, which will contribute to building safer, more efficient teams  

    Patient Safety
    Credentialed assistants reduce risk in MR environments.  

    Quality Care
    Trained professionals support better outcomes.  

    Trust
    ARRT credentials are recognized and respected nationwide.  

    Questions?

    If you have questions about eligibility, our requirements, or applying, we're here to help. Contact us at 651.687.0048, then choose the option for earning an ARRT credential.

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