Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance — I.A.(MR)(ARRT®)

The Imaging Assistant, Magnetic Resonance credential is an entry-level MRI support credential developed by the ARRT®. Individuals who earn this credential will be trained to assist in MRI departments with:

• MRI Level 2 safety
• Patient preparation and positioning
• Workflow support
• Assisting with contrast media administration
• Communication and patient care tasks

I.A.(MR)(ARRT) vs. MRI Technologists - At a Glance

The MRI field is growing rapidly across hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and remote MRI facilities. The ARRT® created this credential because healthcare systems increasingly need trained personnel in MRI environments. Specifically, the credential was created to:

• Improve MRI patient safety
• Create a new entry point into medical imaging
• Support MRI staffing shortages
• Help MRI technologists focus on advanced imaging responsibilities
• Support evolving remote MRI workflows and teleradiology models

The ARRT® has also emphasized that MR Imaging Assistants can help reduce errors and improve efficiency in busy MRI departments.

One of the biggest changes with this credential is that it does not require a college degree or an existing R.T.® credential, making it far more accessible than traditional MRI technologist pathways.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

• You must be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
• Meet ARRT® ethics requirements
• Complete the required structured education
• Complete the required clinical competency activities
• Pass the ARRT's I.A.(MR) examination

STEP 1 Meet Basic Eligibility

• Age: 18+
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Meet ARRT® ethics standards requirements (includes evaluation of criminal history, disciplinary actions, or honor code violations, if applicable)

STEP 2 Create an ARRT® Account

The ARRT® recommends creating an account early. You will need: Your full legal name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and contact information. Candidates can add I.A.(MR) to their ARRT dashboard even before the documentation tool launches.

STEP 3 Complete Structured Education Requirements

The ARRT® requires formal MRI-related education called Structured Education. Topics include:

• MRI safety & MR Level 2 Safety screening
• Patient care and infection control
• MRI environment hazards
• Patient positioning and communication
• Contrast safety and emergency procedures

STEP 4 Find a Clinical Site

Candidates must complete hands-on clinical competency activities in a real MRI environment. Approved settings include: Hospitals, imaging centers, and medical clinics.

STEP 5 Secure a Qualified Verifier

Your clinical activities must be verified by ARRT®-certified and registered technologists or ARRT®-certified Imaging Assistants (once the credential is active). Verification can occur in person or via live video in some circumstances.

STEP 6 Complete Clinical Competency Activities

Activities are expected to involve: MRI screening, patient transfer assistance, MRI safety procedures, patient positioning assistance, communication workflows, patient monitoring, emergency response, and contrast media support. You must track: the imaging study performed, the date, time, and facility name, and the verifier's name.

STEP 7 Complete All Requirements Within 24 Months

STEP 8 Apply for the I.A.(MR)(ARRT) Examination

After completing the ethics requirements, structured education, and clinical competencies, you may apply to take the ARRT® exam. The exam focuses heavily on MRI safety, patient care, workflow support, patient positioning, emergency response, and professional ethics. First exam: Fall 2026.

STEP 9 Pass the I.A.(MR)(ARRT) Examination

Once you pass the exam, you earn the credential: I.A.(MR)(ARRT), a nationally recognized competency in MRI support functions.

STEP 10 Maintain Your Credential

• Annual registration renewal
• 10 discipline-specific continuing education credits every 2 years

Potential Work Environments

• Hospitals
• Outpatient imaging centers
• Orthopedic imaging clinics
• Mobile MRI services
• Remote MRI support operations

Can This Lead to Becoming an MRI Technologist?

Yes — potentially. The ARRT® describes this credential as a possible career advancement pathway into MRI technology careers. Many people may use it to gain MRI department experience, build clinical exposure, and transition later into formal MRI technologist education. However, earning the I.A.(MR)(ARRT) credential alone does not qualify someone to independently perform MRI scans.

If you want to get ready before the Fall 2026 exam:

1. Learn MRI Safety Basics

• Ferromagnetic safety
• MRI zones
• Implant screening
• Emergency response
• Patient positioning and anatomical landmarking

2. Seek MRI Department Exposure

• Shadow someone working in an MRI department or facility
• Volunteer in imaging settings
• Build healthcare experience

3. Find a Potential Clinical Site

• Contact hospitals, imaging centers, and MRI outpatient facilities

4. Monitor ARRT® Updates

The ARRT® plans to give additional updates in 2026 regarding documentation tools, approved education, examination details, and competency requirements.

The new I.A.(MR)(ARRT) credential has generated substantial discussion among MRI professionals.

Technologists who support the credential note that it may:

• Improve workflow
• Increase MRI safety staffing
• Help departments manage patient volume

Others have expressed concerns about:

• Remote verification
• Defining roles and maintaining boundaries
• Training depth
• Workforce impact

These discussions are ongoing within the MRI community.