Although the ABR will discontinue including Authorized User Eligible (AU-E) designations on certificates issued after December 31, 2023, all candidates and program directors should be aware that radioisotope safety items will continue to be tested on the Qualifying (Core) and Certifying (essentials module) exams.

The type and number of items will remain the same as currently tested. Even though Radioisotope Safety Exam (RISE) items will no longer be scored separately to determine AU-E status, radioisotope safety content is considered fundamental knowledge that falls within the domain of diagnostic and interventional radiology practice. Scoring of these items will continue to be included in overall exam results.

ABR certification has never been a prerequisite to becoming a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Authorized User. The NRC and its agreement states provide an application process for documenting training and experience needed to attain AU status for a practice or facility.

Anyone with questions should contact an ABR Certification Services Manager at information@theabr.org or (520) 790-2900.