ABPS Diagnostic Radiology

Eligibility generally requires completion of an accredited diagnostic radiology residency and an unrestricted medical license, with additional documentation submitted to ABPS. Requirements can change, so verify the current eligibility criteria and required paperwork directly with the board before applying.

It is a computer-based, multiple-choice examination covering the full breadth of diagnostic radiology, including subspecialty organ systems plus physics, radiation safety, and quality assurance. Expect image-based and case-based stems. The board publishes the current structure and any section breakdown on its website.

ABPS publishes the current question count and appointment length for each administration. These figures are updated periodically, so check the official ABPS examination page rather than relying on secondhand reports. Plan for a full-day commitment and confirm your allotted time when you receive scheduling instructions.

It is a general certifying examination, so difficulty comes from breadth rather than from obscure trivia. Candidates who trained in a broad program and who review every organ system, including physics and safety, generally find it manageable. The common stumble is deep subspecialty study at the expense of general coverage.

Retake policies, waiting periods, and any limits on attempts are set by ABPS and are not fixed across administrations. Review the current retake policy on the board's website before you apply, and ask the board directly if your situation involves a prior unsuccessful attempt.

The passing standard is established by ABPS and is not something to estimate from forum posts. The board publishes its current passing score or criterion-referenced standard in its candidate materials. Confirm the exact requirement with ABPS before your exam date.

Start with the highest-weight general domains and your own weakest areas, then cycle through everything on a spaced schedule. Reserve dedicated time for physics, radiation safety, and quality assurance, which are frequently underprepared. Finish with timed mixed-topic practice so you can rehearse switching between organ systems under pressure.

Neglecting physics and safety, over-studying one subspecialty, and never practicing under time constraints are the usual culprits. Another is reading without self-testing, which produces familiarity rather than recall. Build in question practice from the start and review every miss by topic.

Fees are set by ABPS and vary by application type and timing. The board publishes the current fee schedule on its website. Check there for the exact amount, deadlines, and any additional charges before submitting your application.

No. This is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the American Board of Physician Specialties. Always treat the official ABPS website and your candidate instructions as the authoritative source for eligibility, format, fees, and scoring.