A certificate will be issued to each candidate who has finished a prescribed and approved period of training and study and has passed computer-based and oral examinations, demonstrating an adequate level of knowledge and ability in radiation oncology in accordance with the definition as stated in the bylaws and rules and regulations of the American Board of Radiology.

There are several reasons that certification is important:

• Prospective employers want to know your credentials. Having ABR certification assures them that you have met certain performance standards.
• Many patients seek background on their caregivers. Once again, ABR certification declares to them that you have achieved a prescribed level of excellence in your profession.

As you go through your residency and as you finish, you take examinations that afford you your first certification. Your certificate is time-limited; it is good for ten years. Over those ten years, you are expected to continue learning and improving your skills in a personalized program (see MOC pages). Then, before the end of the tenth year (any time within the last 3 years of the cycle), you take a maintenance of certification exam. When you have completed all that is required for the MOC cycle, you are issued a new certificate, which shows interested parties that you are keeping up with the latest developments in your field, and can thereby render high-quality service.

A certificate granted by this Board does not of itself confer, or purport to confer, any degree, or legal qualifications, privileges, or license to practice radiology.