The ABR Diagnostic Radiology Core Exam is a certification assessment administered by the American Board of Radiology. It evaluates clinical knowledge across 17 distinct domains, ranging from breast and cardiovascular imaging to physics and noninterpretive skills. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in interpreting diagnostic images and understanding clinical management across these areas of radiology practice to achieve certification. The assessment ensures that all radiologists meet the standards required for safe and effective patient care in various clinical settings.
This exam is intended for radiology residents who have completed the required training period. Candidates should possess clinical experience in diagnostic imaging modalities and be prepared to demonstrate their knowledge of imaging techniques, pathology, and patient management across all 17 domains.
Review the domain blueprints to understand the specific weight and focus areas for each of the 17 sections. Utilize official study guides and clinical resources to practice image interpretation and management scenarios. Focus on mastering the concepts identified for each domain, ensuring familiarity with both common and complex pathologies, as well as regulatory standards and safety requirements. Consistent practice with clinical cases will help candidates prepare for the 615 questions found on the exam.
This domain covers the clinical practice of breast imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. It focuses on screening, diagnostic concepts, and interventional procedures necessary for accurate patient assessment and management in a clinical setting.
This section assesses cardiovascular imaging knowledge, primarily using CT and MR modalities. It excludes vascular interventions and radiography of cardiovascular conditions, focusing instead on the interpretation of cardiac and vascular imaging findings for diagnostic purposes.
This domain evaluates knowledge of computed tomography techniques and clinical applications across various body systems. It covers the technical aspects of image acquisition and the interpretation of findings for a wide range of clinical indications.
This section covers gastrointestinal imaging using fluoroscopy, radiography, CT, MRI, and ultrasound. It includes the study of percutaneous abdominal interventions and the interpretation of imaging findings related to various gastrointestinal diseases and clinical conditions.
This domain focuses on genitourinary imaging, including fluoroscopy, CT, MRI, and ultrasound. It includes the study of obstetrical complications and percutaneous interventions, requiring a deep understanding of the urinary and reproductive systems in clinical practice.
This section covers interventional radiology procedures, including both vascular and non-vascular interventions. It requires knowledge of percutaneous techniques, vascular access, and the management of complications that may arise during various image-guided procedures in clinical practice.
This domain assesses knowledge of magnetic resonance imaging principles, safety, and clinical applications. It covers the physics of MRI, the use of various pulse sequences, and the safety protocols required for patient care during imaging.
This section covers musculoskeletal radiology, including the imaging of bones, joints, and soft tissues. It focuses on the interpretation of findings related to bone tumors, joint pathology, and trauma imaging for effective clinical diagnosis.
This domain focuses on neuroradiology, including the imaging of the brain, spine, and head and neck. It covers neuro-oncology, vascular neuroimaging, and spine pathology, requiring a deep understanding of neurological conditions and their imaging manifestations.
This section covers noninterpretive skills necessary for professional radiology practice. It focuses on professionalism, effective communication with patients and colleagues, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives within a clinical radiology department or practice setting.
This domain assesses knowledge of nuclear radiology, including both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. It covers the use of radiopharmaceuticals, PET/CT imaging, and the safety protocols required for the handling and administration of radioactive materials.
This section covers pediatric radiology, focusing on age-specific imaging considerations and pathologies. It includes the study of congenital anomalies, pediatric trauma, and the importance of radiation dose reduction techniques for the safety of pediatric patients.
This domain evaluates the understanding of physics principles underlying diagnostic imaging modalities. It covers radiation physics, the process of image formation, and the principles of dosimetry required for safe and effective diagnostic imaging practice.
This section covers radiography and fluoroscopy techniques and clinical findings. It focuses on projection radiography, various fluoroscopic procedures, and the assessment of image quality to ensure accurate diagnostic results in a clinical radiology environment.
This domain focuses on thoracic radiology, including the imaging of the lungs, pleura, and mediastinum. It covers the interpretation of lung nodules, interstitial lung disease, and thoracic trauma for accurate diagnosis and clinical management.
This section assesses knowledge of ultrasound imaging, including physics, techniques, and clinical applications. It covers ultrasound physics, Doppler imaging, and organ-specific ultrasound examinations for the diagnosis of various clinical conditions in patients.
This domain covers safety content related to radioisotopes in clinical practice. It focuses on the proper handling of radioisotopes, adherence to safety regulations, and the management of radiation exposure for both patients and medical staff.
The exam is a 944-minute session. Manage your time effectively across the 615 questions. Ensure you are familiar with the testing interface and follow all instructions provided by the American Board of Radiology regarding exam day procedures and requirements to ensure a smooth testing experience.
The ABR Diagnostic Radiology Core Exam consists of 615 questions that are designed to evaluate your clinical knowledge across 17 distinct domains of radiology practice to ensure you meet the required standards for certification.
The exam uses a criterion-referenced pass/fail standard to determine candidate success, which means your performance is measured against a set standard of knowledge rather than against the performance of other candidates taking the exam.
The total duration for the exam is 944 minutes, which includes time for all sections and any breaks provided during the testing session to ensure you have sufficient time to complete all questions effectively.
For information regarding the long-term certification path and any updates to the requirements, please check with the American Board of Radiology to ensure you have the most accurate and current information available for your career.
Verified 2026-09-13
This page was compiled by aggregating official exam documentation and domain blueprints provided by the American Board of Radiology to ensure accurate coverage of all 17 exam domains and to provide candidates with reliable information for their preparation.