RDMS - OB/GYN - RDMS - Obstetrics & Gynecology

The Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) credential is granted by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

The RDMS - OB/GYN certification is available for healthcare providers who practice diagnostic sonography. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) awards this certification to doctors, nurses, and other clinicians who demonstrate proficiency in sonography and an in-depth understanding of the female reproductive system and pregnancy.

Cost

Exam fee - $250, includes processing fee $100 (non-refundable)

Exam fee effective April 4, 2023 - $275

There is an additional $50 non-refundable fee if you schedule your exam outside of the United States, Canada or Mexico.

Candidates must pass two exams to earn RDMS-OB/GYN certification.

1. The Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) Examination is two hours and is multiple choice. Scores for the exam range from 300 to 700. To pass, candidates must score at least 555.

2. The Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) Specialty Examination is three hours and contains 170 questions, including multiple-choice, hot spot, and PACSim questions.

RDMS-OB/GYN candidates must pass both tests within five calendar years, regardless of sequence. This is known as the five-year rule. If the candidate doesn't pass both exams within five years, they must retake the exam they previously passed. However, this rule doesn't apply if they want to earn additional specialty certifications later. As long as their initial specialty is in good standing, they can earn additional specialties at any time.

Prerequisites:

1. Graduation from a 2-year allied health program and proof of 1,680 clinical hours

2. Graduation from or enrollment in an accredited diagnostic sonography program

3. A bachelor’s degree (any major) with 1,680 clinical hours of ultrasound experience

4. Physician, MD, DO, or MBBS with 500 clinical studies or cases completed over SOC months

Candidates may apply online at MY ARDMS. Within 10 days of applying, applicants will receive an email determination of approval to schedule their exam, denial, or request for additional documentation.

Results

Pass/Fail results are generated on completion. In addition, examinees can retrieve a test report showing a scaled score, ranging from 300 to 700. A minimum passing score is 555.

RDMS renewal costs $95 annually. Renewal due on December 31, 2022.

First reinstatement opportunity:

• $95 renewal fee + $150 administrative fee.

• Must be completed by February 28, 2023.

Final reinstatement opportunity:

• $95 renewal fee + $300 administrative fee.

• Must be completed by August 1, 2023.

RDMS-OB/GYN requires 30 Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours every three years to maintain certification.

The ARDMS offers resources for exam candidates, including:

• Content Outline

• Practice Test (Under Prepare, Cost: $35. Effective April 4, 2023, cost $45)

The ARDMS also offers the following certifications:

• RDMS Breast (RDMS-BR)

• RDMS Abdomen (RDMS-AB)

• RDMS Fetal Echocardiography (RDMS-FE)

• RDMS Pediatric Echocardiography (RDMS-PE)

• RDMS - Pediatric Sonography (RDMS-PS)

• Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI)