Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination Guide
Introduction
The Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination in the Philippines is a crucial step for graduates who aim to practice as registered radiologic technologists (RRTs). Administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Professional Regulatory Board of Radiologic Technology, this exam evaluates the knowledge, competence, and readiness of examinees to perform safely and effectively in various healthcare settings.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the exam, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, key exam topics, preparation strategies, and what to expect before, during, and after the test. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a retaker, this resource will help you navigate the licensure process with confidence.
Overview of the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Exam
The Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination is conducted twice a year in select testing centers nationwide, including Manila, Cebu, Davao, and others designated by PRC. The exam covers major subject areas aligned with the academic curriculum and professional competencies of radiologic technology.
Passing this exam grants candidates the title Registered Radiologic Technologist (RRT), enabling them to work in hospitals, diagnostic centers, medical imaging clinics, and other healthcare institutions.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the exam, applicants must ensure they meet the following qualifications:
Basic Qualifications
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Must be a Filipino citizen, or a foreign national whose country has reciprocity with the Philippines.
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Must be of good moral character.
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Must not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude.
Educational Requirements
Document Requirements
When filing the application, PRC usually requires the following documents:
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PSA-issued Birth Certificate.
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PSA-issued Marriage Certificate (for married female applicants).
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Transcript of Records with scanned picture and remarks “For Board Examination Purposes.”
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Valid NBI Clearance.
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Two passport-size photos with white background, full name tag, and proper attire.
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Completed Examination Application Form (available on PRC’s online portal).
Application Process
The PRC has shifted to an online-first system for applications, making the process more efficient. Below is a typical step-by-step process:
Step 1: Register Online
Create an account on the PRC Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS). Provide accurate personal details, including your educational background and valid ID numbers.
Step 2: Set an Appointment
Choose your preferred examination date and testing center. Slots fill up quickly, so applicants are encouraged to book early.
Step 3: Upload Requirements
Upload the digital copies of required documents. Ensure they are clear, complete, and meet PRC guidelines.
Step 4: Pay the Examination Fee
Payment can be made through online channels, partner banks, or PRC cashiers. Keep the receipt for reference.
Step 5: Visit PRC for Document Verification
Attend your scheduled appointment at a PRC office to submit original documents and secure your Notice of Admission (NOA).
Step 6: Wait for Exam Day Instructions
PRC will release reminders and instructions through email or its official website. These include dress code, permitted materials, and testing protocols.
Exam Structure
The Radiologic Technologist Board Exam consists of multiple-choice questions divided into key subject areas:
1. Radiologic Physics
Covers the fundamentals of radiation, interactions with matter, radiologic instrumentation, and radiation protection.
2. Radiographic Positioning and Radiographic Procedures
Focuses on proper patient positioning, imaging techniques, radiographic anatomy, and procedural protocols.
3. Radiologic Anatomy and Physiology
Tests the examinee’s knowledge of the human body, organ systems, and structural relationships relevant to imaging.
4. Radiation Protection and Quality Assurance
Includes best practices for minimizing radiation exposure, understanding dosimetry, and ensuring quality imaging.
5. Medical Ethics and Laws
Covers ethical principles, patient rights, confidentiality regulations, and legal guidelines in radiologic practice.
6. Computed Tomography (CT) and Other Modalities
May include questions on CT imaging, MRI basics, ultrasound fundamentals, and emerging imaging technologies.
Exam Duration
The exam is conducted over two days, typically with two major subjects per day. Each exam component includes 100–150 questions.
Coverage Breakdown
Although the exact percentage allocation may change, the typical distribution involves:
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Radiologic Physics – 20–25%
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Radiographic Procedures/Positioning – 25–30%
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Anatomy and Physiology – 15–20%
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Radiation Protection – 10–15%
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Medical Ethics and Laws – 5–10%
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Other Modalities – 5–10%
Passing Rate
To pass the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination:
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Examinees must obtain a general weighted average of at least 75%,
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With no rating below 50% in any major subject.
Failing to meet these criteria results in retaking the entire examination or specific subjects depending on PRC rules.
Tips for Exam Preparation
Here are effective strategies to help you maximize your preparation:
Create a Study Schedule
Allocate time for each subject area, prioritizing weaker topics. Stick to a consistent daily or weekly schedule.
Use Updated Review Materials
Choose review books and study guides endorsed by professors or review centers. Supplement your reading with online resources, practice questions, and updated lecture notes.
Attend Review Centers (Optional)
Review programs can help structure your study plan, provide updated mock exams, and clarify difficult concepts.
Practice Time Management
Use mock exams to simulate real-time testing. This helps you get comfortable with time pressure and question pacing.
Master Radiographic Positions
This is one of the most heavily weighted sections. Memorize positioning landmarks, angles, and evaluation criteria for common and special procedures.
Understand Radiation Protection
Radiation safety is core to the profession, so expect questions on exposure limits, shielding, and ALARA principles.
Take Care of Your Health
Adequate sleep, hydration, and balanced meals improve focus and information retention.
What to Bring on Exam Day
PRC regularly updates its exam-day guidelines, but typical requirements include:
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Notice of Admission (NOA)
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Official receipt of payment
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Black ballpoint pens
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Pencils (No. 2)
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Long brown envelope
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Long transparent plastic envelope
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Valid government-issued ID (with signature and photo)
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Snacks and water (as allowed)
Follow the exact dress code, usually white polo or blouse with black pants and closed shoes.
Exam-Day Reminders
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Arrive at the testing center at least 1 hour before the scheduled start.
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Strictly follow seating assignments.
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Electronic devices, calculators with advanced functions, and reference materials are usually prohibited.
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Keep calm and read each item carefully.
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Manage your time wisely—don’t spend too long on one question.
After the Exam: What Happens Next
PRC releases exam results within 5–10 working days after the exam. The list of passers is posted on the PRC website and major news outlets.
Oath-Taking
Successful examinees must attend the mass oath-taking ceremony or apply for an online oath through PRC’s LERIS system.
Issuance of PRC ID and Certificate
After taking the oath, you may apply for your Professional Identification Card (PIC) and Certificate of Registration. This officially grants you the title of Registered Radiologic Technologist (RRT).
Employment Opportunities
Newly licensed radiologic technologists can work in:
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Public and private hospitals
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Diagnostic clinics
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Outpatient imaging centers
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Research institutions
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Health and medical equipment companies
Some may pursue advanced training in MRI, CT, mammography, or ultrasound.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Difficulty with Physics
Physics is often one of the hardest sections. Counter this by watching video lectures, practicing numerical problems, and summarizing formulas.
Radiographic Positioning Memorization
Use visual aids, flashcards, and practice sessions with classmates.
Test Anxiety
Develop relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, and avoid last-minute cramming.
Incomplete Clinical Exposure
Supplement knowledge gaps by reviewing case studies and radiographic images online.
Should You Retake If You Fail?
Failing the exam is not the end. Many successful RRTs retook the exam before eventually passing. If you fail:
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Review your weak subjects.
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Consider enrolling in a review center.
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Ask mentors or experienced technologists for advice.
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Maintain discipline and focus.
Final Thoughts
The Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination is a significant milestone for anyone pursuing a career in medical imaging. With proper preparation, discipline, and determination, passing the exam is fully achievable. Use this guide to navigate the application process, structure your review, and stay confident throughout your journey.
Becoming a licensed radiologic technologist opens the door to a fulfilling, stable, and impactful healthcare career. Stay committed, trust your training, and take each step with purpose.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination?
The Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination is a national board exam administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) through the Professional Regulatory Board of Radiologic Technology. It evaluates whether graduates of Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology have the required knowledge, skills, and ethical standards to practice safely as registered radiologic technologists in hospitals and imaging centers.
Who is eligible to take the radiologic technologist board exam?
You are generally eligible if you have completed a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology from a CHED-recognized institution, finished the required clinical internship, and possess good moral character. You must also be a Filipino citizen or a foreign national from a country with reciprocity, and you should not have been convicted of any offense involving moral turpitude.
What documents do I need to apply for the exam?
Commonly required documents include your PSA-issued birth certificate, PSA-issued marriage certificate for married women, official transcript of records with the remark “For Board Examination Purposes,” valid NBI clearance, and recent passport-sized photos with a white background and full name tag. You will also need to complete the online application form through PRC’s system and present valid government-issued identification.
How do I apply for the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination?
Applications are done primarily through the PRC Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS). You must create an account, encode your personal and educational information, set an appointment, upload scanned copies of your documents, and pay the examination fee through approved payment channels. After this, you must visit a PRC office on your appointment date for verification and to obtain your Notice of Admission (NOA).
How often is the radiologic technologist board exam given?
The exam is typically offered twice a year in designated testing centers such as Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other PRC-announced locations. However, schedules may change depending on official PRC announcements. It is important to regularly check the PRC website or official social media pages for updated exam dates, filing deadlines, and list of testing centers.
What subjects are covered in the exam?
The exam usually covers Radiologic Physics, Radiographic Positioning and Procedures, Radiologic Anatomy and Physiology, Radiation Protection and Quality Assurance, and Medical Ethics and Laws. In some cases, basic concepts from computed tomography and other imaging modalities may also be included. The questions focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application in the clinical setting.
What is the passing rate for the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination?
To pass, you generally need a general weighted average of at least 75%, with no rating lower than 50% in any of the major subject areas. If your score falls below these minimum requirements, you will be considered a non-passer and may need to retake the entire exam or follow specific PRC rules regarding conditional or partial failures, if applicable at that time.
How can I effectively prepare for the board exam?
Start by creating a realistic study schedule that allocates time for each subject area, prioritizing your weaker topics. Use updated review materials, including textbooks, lecture notes, and practice questions. Many exam takers join review centers for structured guidance, but self-study can also work if you are disciplined. Regularly answer mock exams under timed conditions to build stamina and improve your pacing.
Which topics should I focus on the most during review?
Radiographic positioning and procedures, radiologic physics, and radiation protection usually carry significant weight. Make sure you are comfortable with landmark-based positioning, image evaluation criteria, and fundamental physics concepts such as exposure factors and interactions of radiation with matter. Additionally, do not ignore anatomy and ethics, because these often contain straightforward questions that can boost your overall score.
What should I bring on exam day?
You should bring your Notice of Admission (NOA), official payment receipt, valid government-issued ID, and PRC-required supplies such as black ballpens, No. 2 pencils, erasers, and envelopes (often a long brown envelope and a long transparent plastic envelope). Some testing centers may allow basic snacks and water, but all items must comply with PRC guidelines. Electronic gadgets and reference materials are typically prohibited.
What is the usual dress code for the exam?
PRC commonly requires examinees to wear a clean, modest, and professional outfit. This often means a white collared blouse or polo shirt paired with black or dark slacks and closed shoes. You should avoid wearing shirts with loud prints, denim pants, or slippers. The dress code is part of maintaining professionalism and order during the examination period.
How soon are the board exam results released?
Results are generally released within several working days after the last day of the exam, although the exact timeline may vary. PRC publishes the list of passers on its official website and may also release it through partner media outlets. Once the results are out, PRC will subsequently announce the schedule and procedure for the oath-taking ceremony and initial registration.
What happens after I pass the Radiologic Technologist Licensure Examination?
After passing, you must attend an oath-taking ceremony, either in person or online if allowed. You then apply for your Professional Identification Card and Certificate of Registration through PRC. Once you receive these, you are officially recognized as a Registered Radiologic Technologist and may start applying for positions in hospitals, diagnostic centers, imaging clinics, and related healthcare or industry settings.
What if I fail the exam? Can I retake it?
Yes, you can retake the exam if you do not pass. Many successful radiologic technologists did not pass on their first attempt. Use the result as feedback on which subjects you need to improve. Strengthen your foundation in weak areas, consider joining a review center, and adjust your study strategies. With consistent effort and better preparation, your chances of passing on your next attempt can significantly improve.
Is working abroad possible after passing the exam?
Passing the local licensure exam is often a key step toward building a career that can eventually extend overseas. However, each country has its own licensing, credential evaluation, and sometimes additional examination requirements. You may need to verify foreign credential rules, pass language tests, or complete bridging programs. Still, holding a local RRT license generally strengthens your profile when exploring international opportunities.
