ARDMS Vascular Technology Exam: The Complete Guide (2026)
Last Updated: January 2026 | Reading Time: 20 minutes
Quick Summary: The ARDMS Vascular Technology (VT) exam is a 170-question, 3-hour test required to earn the Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) credential. This comprehensive exam covers arterial and venous anatomy, pathology, Doppler principles, and interventional procedures. This guide covers everything you need: exam format, all 7 content domains, 10 free practice questions, registration steps, and proven study strategies.
Table of Contents
- What is the Vascular Technology Exam?
- Vascular Technology Exam Format & Structure
- Understanding the 7 Content Domains
- Free Vascular Technology Practice Test Questions
- Vascular Technology Exam Scoring & Pass Rate
- How to Register for the Vascular Technology Exam
- What to Expect on Exam Day
- How Long Should You Study?
- Free Video Lessons
- Tips to Pass the Vascular Technology Exam
- FAQs
What is the Vascular Technology Exam?
Why the Vascular Technology is Challenging
The Vascular Technology is often considered one of the more challenging exams because:
- Hemodynamic complexity: Understanding blood flow physics, pressure gradients, and velocity changes requires strong foundational knowledge
- Broad anatomical scope: The exam covers cerebrovascular, peripheral arterial, peripheral venous, abdominal vascular, and visceral examinations
- Clinical integration: Questions require correlating ultrasound findings with patient symptoms and treatment decisions
- Technical precision: Proper technique, angle correction, and protocol compliance are heavily tested
Vascular Technology Exam Format & Structure
Understanding the exam format helps you prepare strategically:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | Approximately 165 multiple-choice |
| Time Limit | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 555 (on a 300-700 scale) |
| Format | Multiple choice and hotspot questions with vascular images |
| Testing Centers | Pearson VUE (in-person or online proctoring) |
| Exam Fee | $300 (as of 2026) |
Understanding the 7 Content Domains
The Vascular Technology exam is divided into 7 content domains, each weighted differently. Knowing these weights helps you prioritize your study time.
Content Domain Weights
Question estimates based on total question count. Focus study time proportionally.
Study tip: Spend the most time on the largest domain—it makes up the biggest portion of your exam.
Domain 1: Normal Anatomy, Perfusion, and Function (21%)
Approximately 35 questions
Domain 2: Pathology, Perfusion, and Function (32%)
Approximately 53 questions
Domain 3: Surgically Altered Anatomy and Pathology (6%)
Approximately 10 questions
Domain 4: Physiologic Examinations (12%)
Approximately 20 questions
Domain 5: Ultrasound-guided Procedures/Intraoperative Assessment (7%)
Approximately 12 questions
Domain 6: Quality Assurance, Safety, and Physical Principles (14%)
Approximately 23 questions
Domain 7: Preparation, Documentation, and Communication (8%)
Approximately 13 questions
Velocity ratio = PSV stenosis / PSV proximal
ICA/CCA ratio for carotid stenosis grading
ABI = Ankle systolic pressure / Brachial systolic pressure
TBI = Toe systolic pressure / Brachial systolic pressure
Flow = Velocity × Cross-sectional area
Resistance = (8 × length × viscosity) / (π × radius⁴)
Continuity equation: A₁V₁ = A₂V₂
Pressure gradient increases with stenosis severity
Critical stenosis: >50% diameter reduction (>75% area reduction)
Free Vascular Technology Practice Test Questions
Test your knowledge with these sample Vascular Technology exam questions. Answers and explanations are provided below.
Question 1
A patient presents with right leg swelling. During compression ultrasound of the common femoral vein, the vein does not completely compress. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Question 2
What ICA/CCA peak systolic velocity ratio indicates 50-69% internal carotid artery stenosis according to consensus criteria?
Question 3
An ankle-brachial index (ABI) of 0.65 indicates:
Question 4
During a lower extremity venous reflux examination, what duration of retrograde flow indicates pathologic reflux in the superficial femoral vein?
Question 5
Which waveform characteristic is typically seen in the common femoral artery of a patient with significant aortoiliac occlusive disease?
Question 6
A 2.5 MHz transducer would be most appropriate for evaluating which vascular structure?
Question 7
During carotid duplex imaging, you observe a hypoechoic plaque with an irregular surface in the internal carotid artery. This plaque is most likely to be:
Question 8
What is the primary advantage of using power Doppler over color Doppler when evaluating slow flow in small vessels?
Question 9
A patient with a femoral-popliteal bypass graft shows a peak systolic velocity of 380 cm/s at the proximal anastomosis with a velocity ratio of 4.5. This finding suggests:
Question 10
During evaluation of the mesenteric arteries, which finding in the superior mesenteric artery suggests significant stenosis?
Answer Key with Explanations
Non-compressibility of a vein is the primary diagnostic criterion for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A normal vein should completely compress with gentle transducer pressure. The inability to compress indicates intraluminal thrombus.
According to the Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound (SRU) consensus criteria, an ICA/CCA ratio of 2.0-4.0 indicates 50-69% stenosis. A ratio > 4.0 suggests ≥70% stenosis. These ratios help standardize carotid stenosis grading.
An ABI of 0.65 indicates moderate peripheral arterial disease. Normal ABI is 1.0-1.4. Mild PAD: 0.9-0.99. Moderate PAD: 0.4-0.89. Severe PAD: < 0.4. An ABI > 1.4 suggests non-compressible calcified vessels.
Reflux > 1.0 second in the deep veins (common femoral, femoral/superficial femoral, popliteal) and > 0.5 seconds in superficial veins (great saphenous, small saphenous) and perforators is considered pathologic. The femoral vein threshold is > 1.0 second.
Proximal obstruction (aortoiliac disease) causes characteristic changes in downstream waveforms: monophasic flow pattern, tardus-parvus waveform (delayed systolic upstroke), and decreased peak systolic velocity. The normal triphasic pattern is lost.
Lower frequency transducers (2-3 MHz) provide better penetration for deep structures like the aorta, especially in larger patients. Higher frequencies (7-12 MHz) are used for superficial vessels like carotid and peripheral arteries. Digital and temporal arteries require the highest frequencies (10-15 MHz).
Hypoechoic (soft) plaques with irregular surfaces are considered vulnerable plaques at high risk for embolization. They typically contain lipid-rich cores or hemorrhage. Calcified plaques are hyperechoic with shadowing and considered more stable. Fibrous plaques are moderately echogenic.
Power Doppler displays the amplitude (strength) of the Doppler signal rather than velocity and direction. This makes it more sensitive to slow flow and flow in small vessels. However, it does not provide directional information or velocity data.
In bypass graft surveillance, a PSV > 300 cm/s or velocity ratio > 3.5-4.0 indicates a severe (>75%) stenosis that places the graft at high risk for failure. These patients typically require intervention to preserve graft patency.
A peak systolic velocity > 275 cm/s in the SMA indicates significant (>70%) stenosis. Normal fasting SMA PSV is typically < 125 cm/s. The celiac artery threshold for significant stenosis is PSV > 200 cm/s. End-diastolic velocity elevation supports the diagnosis.
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Vascular Technology Exam Scoring & Pass Rate
Current Pass Rates
According to official data, the Vascular Technology first-time pass rate is approximately 75%. This makes it one of the more challenging exams.
Why Pass Rates May Be Lower
- Extensive anatomy: Must master arterial, venous, and visceral vascular systems throughout the body
- Hemodynamic principles: Understanding flow physics and how disease affects hemodynamics
- Protocol knowledge: Knowing appropriate examination protocols and diagnostic criteria
- Clinical correlation: Questions require understanding how findings affect patient management
Understanding Your Score Report
Your score report includes:
- Overall scaled score (pass/fail at 555)
- Performance breakdown by all 7 content domains
- Percentile ranking compared to other examinees
What If You Don't Pass?
First, know that you're not alone—many examinees don't pass on their first attempt.
- Waiting period: 60 days before you can retake
- Maximum attempts: 3 attempts per 12-month period
- Re-application: You must submit a new application and fee for each attempt
How to Register for the Vascular Technology Exam
Step 1: Create an ARDMS Account
Visit myARDMS.org, create a new account or log in, and complete your profile information.
Step 2: Complete Prerequisites
You must pass the SPI exam before or concurrently with the VT exam. Both are required for the RVT credential.
Step 3: Verify Your Eligibility
ARDMS offers several pathways to VT eligibility:
- Pathway 1: Graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited vascular technology or sonography program with vascular concentration
- Pathway 2: Graduate from an accredited allied health program + 12 months full-time vascular clinical experience
- Pathway 3: Bachelor's degree in any field + 12 months full-time vascular clinical experience
- Pathway 4: 24 months full-time vascular clinical experience
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Select 'Vascular Technology' from available exams, choose your eligibility pathway, upload required documentation (transcripts, clinical verification), and pay the examination fee ($275).
Step 5: Receive Your Authorization to Test (ATT)
ARDMS reviews applications within 2-4 weeks. Upon approval, you'll receive an ATT via email valid for 90 days.
Step 6: Schedule with Pearson VUE
Visit Pearson VUE, choose in-person or online proctoring, select your preferred date and time. Allow adequate study time before scheduling.
What to Expect on Exam Day
For In-Person Testing
Before arrival:
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep the night before
- Eat a balanced meal—the exam is 3 hours long
- Arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in
- Bring two forms of valid ID (one with photo and signature)
At the testing center:
- Check in with the test administrator
- Store personal belongings in a locker (no phones, watches, or notes allowed)
- Palm vein scan or photo may be taken for security
During the exam:
- You'll receive scratch paper and a basic calculator
- Breaks are permitted but count against your 3-hour time limit
- Pace yourself—aim for about 1 minute per question
- Flag difficult questions and return to them later
For Online Proctoring
System requirements:
- Reliable high-speed internet connection
- Webcam and microphone (built-in or external)
- Windows or Mac computer (tablets not permitted)
- Download OnVUE software before exam day
Environment requirements:
- Quiet, private room with closed door
- Clear desk—remove all items except computer
- No dual monitors permitted
- Well-lit room where your face is clearly visible
How Long Should You Study?
The ideal study timeline depends on your background:
| Situation | Recommended Study Time |
|---|---|
| Current vascular technology student | 8-10 weeks |
| Recent graduate (< 1 year, working in vascular) | 6-8 weeks |
| Working sonographer adding RVT credential | 10-12 weeks |
| Experienced vascular tech (3+ years) | 4-6 weeks |
Sample Study Schedule
Week 1-2: Anatomy & Normal Hemodynamics
- Review Domain 1: Normal anatomy, perfusion, and function
- Master arterial and venous anatomy of all vascular beds
- Study normal Doppler waveform characteristics
- Complete 100-150 anatomy-focused practice questions
Complete 100-150 practice questions
Week 3-4: Vascular Pathology (Critical)
- Focus on Domain 2: Pathology (32% of exam)
- Study DVT criteria, carotid stenosis grading, PAD classification
- Learn aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, and AV fistula characteristics
- Practice clinical scenario questions
Complete 200+ practice questions
Week 5: Surgical & Interventional
- Domain 3: Surgically altered anatomy
- Domain 5: Ultrasound-guided procedures
- Review bypass graft surveillance criteria
- Study stent evaluation and post-intervention findings
Complete 150 practice questions
Week 6: Physiologic Testing
- Domain 4: Physiologic examinations
- Master ABI, TBI, segmental pressures, PVR
- Study exercise testing protocols
- Practice calculations and interpretation
Complete 150 practice questions
Week 7: Physics, QA & Documentation
- Domain 6: Quality assurance, safety, physical principles
- Domain 7: Preparation, documentation, communication
- Review Doppler physics and instrumentation
- Take first full-length mock exam
Complete 170 practice questions
Week 8: Final Preparation
- Take 2-3 timed mock exams (170 questions, 3 hours)
- Review all missed questions thoroughly
- Focus extra time on weakest domains
- Light review day before exam—rest is important
Free Video Lessons
Free Video Lessons
Watch these free video lessons to help you prepare for the Vascular Technology.
Tips to Pass the Vascular Technology Exam
1. Master the Pathology Domain
Domain 2 (Pathology) accounts for 32% of the exam. Know diagnostic criteria cold: DVT compression findings, carotid stenosis velocity thresholds, ABI interpretation, and reflux duration cutoffs.
2. Learn Velocity Criteria by Heart
Memorize key velocity thresholds: ICA stenosis grading (PSV, EDV, ratios), renal artery stenosis (>180 cm/s), SMA stenosis (>275 cm/s), bypass graft failure criteria. These are frequently tested.
3. Understand Hemodynamic Principles
Don't just memorize—understand WHY stenosis increases velocity, how resistance affects waveforms, and what happens proximal and distal to an obstruction. This helps with unfamiliar scenarios.
4. Practice Clinical Correlation
Many questions present clinical scenarios. Practice connecting symptoms (claudication, TIA, leg swelling) with expected ultrasound findings and appropriate examination protocols.
5. Know Your Protocols
Review standard examination protocols for each vascular bed. Know what vessels to evaluate, proper technique (angle correction, compression), and complete versus limited study indications.
6. Don't Neglect Physiologic Testing
Domain 4 (12%) covers non-imaging tests like ABI, segmental pressures, and plethysmography. These concepts are straightforward points if you study them.
FAQs
How many questions are on the Vascular Technology exam?
The VT exam contains approximately 165 multiple-choice questions.
What is the passing score for the VT exam?
You need a scaled score of 555 or higher (on a 300-700 scale) to pass.
How long is the Vascular Technology exam?
You have 3 hours (180 minutes) to complete the exam—approximately 1 minute per question.
How much does the VT exam cost?
The examination fee is $275 (as of 2026).
Do I need to pass the SPI exam to get my RVT?
Yes, the RVT credential requires passing both the SPI exam and the VT exam. You can take them in either order or on the same day.
How many times can I take the VT exam?
You can attempt the VT exam up to 3 times within a 12-month period with a mandatory 60-day waiting period between attempts.
What is the largest content domain on the VT exam?
Domain 2: Pathology, Perfusion, and Function is the largest at 32% of the exam. This domain covers abnormal findings in all vascular beds.
Can I take the VT exam online?
Yes, ARDMS offers online proctoring through Pearson VUE. You'll need a private room, webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection.
How do I know if I'm ready for the VT exam?
Aim for 80-85% accuracy on full-length practice exams under timed conditions. Also ensure you're comfortable with all 7 content domains.
Related ARDMS Exam Guides
Explore other ARDMS certification exam guides to continue your journey.
SPI Exam Guide
Required for RDMS/RDCS/RVT | 110 questions
Abdomen Exam Guide
RDMS (AB) | 165 questions
OB/GYN Exam Guide
RDMS (OB/GYN) | 165 questions
Adult Echocardiography Exam Guide
RDCS (AE) | 165 questions
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This guide is updated regularly to reflect the latest ARDMS Vascular Technology exam information. Last reviewed: January 2026.