PET (NMTCB) - Positron Emission Technology

Radiologic technologists (RT) are part of the interdisciplinary team performing diagnostics tests including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. The majority of RTs workin hospital settings. After completing an accredited program, additional certification and license are required and regulated by state and national agencies.

The Positron Emission Technology (PET) certification is offered by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB). This certification is relevant for the RT who has demonstrated experience working in the PET field. The PET-certified professional has expertise in the use of instrumentation, pharmaceuticals, and adjunct therapies related to the use of PET.

To be eligible for the PET certification examination offered by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB), the candidate must have documentation of the following:

• Active NMTCB, ARRT(N), or CAMRT (RTNM) certification.

• Minimum of 700 hours of clinical experience as a certified/registered nuclear medicine technologist on a dedicated PET scanner, PET/MR scanner, or PET/CT scanner.

Candidates with current certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) must demonstrate the following:

• 700 hours of documented clinical experience performing all aspects of PET imaging, including radiopharmaceutical handling, injection (if permitted by state and/or institutional regulations), and imaging. Imaging may be performed on a dedicated PET scanner, PET/MR scanner, and/or a PET/CT scanner. 

• A nuclear medicine physician or radiologist must perform supervision, AND direct supervision must be performed by a certified NMTCB, ARRT(N), or CAMRT(RTNM) nuclear medicine technologist. 

• Completion of a minimum of fifteen contact hours of coursework in each of the following areas: radiopharmacy, nuclear medicine instrumentation, and radiation safety.

The online application fee for the PET certification is $225.

The PET certification must be renewed annually. The renewal fee is $15 with CNMT certification and $30 without CNMT certification.

The PET certification offered by the NMTCB is valid for seven years. Applicants seeking renewal must complete one of the following:

• Successful completion of the certification exam.

• Completion of 42 hours of CE specific to the certification speciality.

Certifications that have expired over five years ago cannot be renewed, and the RT must reapply through the initial application process.

The NMTCB offers a content outline.

The NMTCB also offers the following:

• Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist (CNMT)

• Computed Tomography (CT)

• Nuclear Cardiology Technologist (NCT)

• Radiation Safety (RS)

• Nuclear Medicine Advanced Associate (NMAA)

The RT may also be required to obtain additional certification of skills such as:

• Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Permit: DEXA scans are used to measure bone density.

• Nuclear Medicine Technology Certificate: Uses small amounts of radiopharmaceuticals to assess body system functions.