Limited Scope X-Ray Pass Rate, Format & Study Guide

The ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography examination has a core module and separate procedure modules for chest, extremities, skull and sinuses, spine and podiatric radiography (ARRT content specifications, implemented January 1, 2023). Each state decides which modules a limited-scope operator must pass, so the exam you take may be only part of what this portal covers. The content specifications give each core and procedure area a share of the questions; radiation protection is the largest core area at 13.33%.

In states that license limited x-ray operators, passing the required ARRT modules is a condition of the license.

Limited x-ray machine operators and trainees in states that use the ARRT limited-scope examination.

The certifying body does not publicly publish an official pass rate for this exam. Be wary of third-party sites citing a specific number here — treat any pass-rate claim you see elsewhere for this exam as unverified.

Retake rules are set by ARRT and the state that uses the exam; check the state handbook before you register again.

ARRT and your state agency set the passing standard; check the ARRT candidate handbook your state publishes. The portal shows percentages only as a self-check. Format: a core module plus the procedure modules your state requires; this portal's mock combines the core and all five procedure modules. No official pass rate is available for this exam, so none is quoted here.

The ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography examination has a core module and separate procedure modules for chest, extremities, skull and sinuses, spine and podiatric radiography (ARRT content specifications, implemented January 1, 2023). Each state decides which modules a limited-scope operator must pass, so the exam you take may be only part of what this portal covers. The content specifications give each core and procedure area a share of the questions; radiation protection is the largest core area at 13.33%. Core module plus anatomical procedure modules (chest, extremities, skull and sinuses, spine, podiatric) · multiple choice · computer-based · modules required depend on your state. ARRT and your state agency set the passing standard; check the ARRT candidate handbook your state publishes. The portal shows percentages only as a self-check.

• Patient Interactions and Management (Core)8.6%
• Radiation Physics and Radiobiology (Core)5.7%
• Radiation Protection (Core)13.3%
• Image Acquisition and Evaluation (Core)9.5%
• Equipment Operation and Quality Assurance (Core)10.5%
• Chest Procedures9.5%
• Extremities Procedures11.9%
• Skull and Sinuses Procedures9.5%
• Spine Procedures11.9%
• Podiatric Procedures9.5%

The content outline spreads questions across 10 areas: Patient Interactions and Management (Core) (8.6%); Radiation Physics and Radiobiology (Core) (5.7%); Radiation Protection (Core) (13.3%); Image Acquisition and Evaluation (Core) (9.5%); Equipment Operation and Quality Assurance (Core) (10.5%); Chest Procedures (9.5%); Extremities Procedures (11.9%); Skull and Sinuses Procedures (9.5%); Spine Procedures (11.9%); Podiatric Procedures (9.5%).

Your state licensing agency decides who may test and which modules apply. Many states accept the ARRT core plus the anatomical modules matching the procedures you will perform.

An ARRT examination fee set by the state program, plus your state application and license fees.

Licenses and permits are renewed with your state agency; the passed examination is part of your state record.

Start with the heaviest areas of the content outline: Radiation Protection (Core) (13.3%); Extremities Procedures (11.9%); Spine Procedures (11.9%). Then work through the remaining areas, and finish with timed full-length practice runs of 210 questions in one sitting.

ARRT approved the current content specifications in January 2022 and implemented them on January 1, 2023. Fees and requirements differ by state; check your state agency.