As candidates progress through their residency and after completion of training, they will take two exams to gain initial certification in diagnostic radiology: the Qualifying (Core) Exam and the Certifying Exam.
The Qualifying (Core) Exam, offered after 36 months of residency training, is image rich and computer based; it covers 16 subspecialty and modality categories.
The Certifying Exam, given approximately 15 months after completion of diagnostic residency training, is also computer based and image rich, and it includes four modules. Three modules are clinical practice areas and may be chosen by the examinee to fit his or her interests, experience, and training. The other module, Essentials of Diagnostic Radiology, is taken by all examinees.
Please see the Diagnostic Radiology Calendar for future exam dates.Beginning in calendar year 2028 and first applying to DR residents completing training in June 2027 (entering their R1 year in July 2023), the certifying exam for DR will be the new DR Oral Exam. From that point on, a candidate’s first opportunity to take the new DR Oral Exam will be the calendar year following completion of their DR residency. All DR candidates taking the DR Certifying Exam after 2027 will be required to take the new DR Oral Exam regardless of when they completed residency training. We anticipate having two exam administrations per year. For more information and updates pertaining to the new DR Oral exam, please visit the New Diagnostic Radiology Oral Exam page.
Information is also available for Program Administration (Program Directors and Program Coordinators) and Credentialers and Practices.
For those who have completed residency and are seeking employment:The ABR provides a letter clarifying the mandatory waiting period before certification may be earned. A resident may provide this letter with his or her application materials to a potential employer. Click here for a copy of the letter.
Successful ABR Candidates are awarded a continuous ABR specialty certificate in diagnostic radiology.
Continuing certification in diagnostic radiology is contingent upon meeting the requirements of the ABR’s Continuing Certification (MOC) program. For Continuing Certification (MOC) program details, please see the Continuing Certification page.
For questions related to these or other board certification issues, please contact us at information@theabr.org or 520-790-2900.
At the ABR, our mission is to certify that our diplomates demonstrate the requisite knowledge, skill, and understanding of their disciplines to the benefit of patients. Founded in 1934, we’re a not-for-profit organization and are a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties.
American Board of Radiology
5441 E. Williams Circle, Tucson, AZ 85711-7412 · (520) 790-2900
The American Board of Radiology does not and shall not discriminate based on race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status in any of its activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers, conducting committee meetings, and administering exams. We are committed to an environment free from discrimination, sexual harassment, and other unlawful forms of harassment. To report any actions of discrimination, sexual harassment, or other unlawful harassment, please contact Karyn Howard, Managing Director, at 520-790-2900 extension 2171 or you can call our confidential hotline at 844-280-0005.
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