In reading the 18VAC60-20-195 Radiation certification regulations, I am presuming that;

(i)                 satisfactorily completed a course or examination recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (A CODA approved dental assisting/dental hygiene/dentistry   program and passing the approved final exam). 

(ii)               been certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (Military trained dental assistants).

(iii)             satisfactorily completed a radiation course and passed an examination given by the Dental Assisting National Board (Non-CODA-accredited dental assisting/hygiene program and passing the DANB RHS EXAM). 

In my opinion all three pathways teach Radiation Safety for patient and operator, processing, mounting, labeling, and exposure/evaluate techniques.  New regulation (iii) certainly needs to be addressed.  Does this also mean that the two day Dental Radiography courses that were provided for years in Virginia by several dental assisting and dental hygiene schools are still approved as long as the DANB RHS Exam is taken and passed?  I believe this is the issue that needs more clarification.  Also, the DANB RHS EXAM can be taken without any prior education or experience (no eligibility requirements).  Is this accepted?  It is of my opinion that the DANB RHS EXAM is very comprehensive and you must be extremely knowledgeable to pass it.