Master noninvasive vascular ultrasound and earn your ARRT VS credential.
Vascular Sonography (VS) is a post-primary certification and registration administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). It recognizes technologists who specialize in noninvasive vascular ultrasound imaging and physiologic testing of the arterial and venous systems throughout the body.
Because VS is a post-primary pathway, candidates must first hold ARRT certification and registration in a supporting primary discipline (such as Sonography or Radiography) and complete the required structured education and clinical experience before applying. The credential certifies competency in evaluating cerebrovascular, peripheral arterial and venous, and abdominal vascular anatomy using duplex and Doppler techniques.
The VS examination is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam delivered at approved testing centers. It assesses both foundational knowledge—physical principles, hemodynamics, and instrumentation—and the applied clinical skills needed to perform and document vascular studies safely and accurately.
Mapped to the ARRT content outline.
Patient interaction, safety, history taking, and ethical and professional practice during vascular exams.
Ultrasound physics, Doppler and spectral analysis, blood flow dynamics, and proper use and optimization of equipment.
Duplex evaluation of the carotid, vertebral, and intracranial vessels to assess stenosis and flow.
Duplex and physiologic testing of upper and lower extremity arteries, including bypass grafts and stenosis grading.
Assessment of deep and superficial veins for thrombosis, reflux, and venous insufficiency.
Evaluation of the aorta, renal, mesenteric, and portal vasculature and related pathology.
Registered sonographers and radiologic technologists who want to specialize in noninvasive vascular imaging, as well as clinicians in vascular labs seeking a recognized post-primary credential to advance their careers.
VS is a post-primary pathway requiring an existing ARRT primary certification plus structured education and documented clinical experience requirements. Requirements change periodically, so always verify current eligibility and application rules at arrt.org.
Create a free profile now — you'll be ready to jump in the moment Vascular Sonography prep launches, and you can start with radiography or CIIP today.
Official exam details and eligibility: arrt.org