I already have Abdomen and/or OB/GYN — should I take Breast or RVT next?
Short Answer
If you've already passed two exams, you understand how ARDMS works, so this comes down to two things: how hard each exam is, and what you'll use the credential for. If you plan to work in vascular, go for RVT first. If you want a lighter exam and one more credential in a short time, take Breast.
What You Should Know
Having passed two exams already, you have a basic grasp of how these exams work, so either choice is realistic. The decision mostly comes down to two factors.
1. Difficulty. RVT is harder than Abdomen or OB/GYN. Expect to study as much as you did for those, or more. See People say RVT is harder than SPI or OB/GYN — how hard does it actually feel? Breast is the opposite: far less material than the exams you've already done, and not a hard exam. See How long does Breast usually take to prepare for? (Can I study for less time than other exams?)
2. How you'll use it. In general, RVT tends to be valued more highly as a credential. And if you're planning to work in vascular ultrasound, RVT is the one that matters most for that work.
My Recommendation
- If you plan to work in vascular, or want the higher-value credential: take RVT first. But if you can't commit to a heavier study load right now, think it through before starting, since it will take at least as much effort as your previous exams.
- If you want a lighter exam and one more credential: take Breast. It's a good fit for a short, focused study period.
Bottom Line
RVT first if it fits your career plans and you can commit the time. Breast first if you want a quicker, lighter win.
Next step
Check your basics, then find your weak areas
Basics: try 5 SPI physics questions with full explanations — no account needed. Quick Check and Deep Check are free exam-style diagnostics that show your weak areas.
ReadyScore is an independent study diagnostic, not an official ARDMS score prediction.
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