Nebraska Portable X-ray Regulations

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services handles licensing, registrations, and regulations of portable x-ray equipment in Nebraska.

X-ray License in Nebraska

There are different types of licenses for x-ray operation in the state of Nebraska. Applications for these are:

• Application for ARRT Limited Radiographer Examination
• Application for ARRT Bone Densitometry Equipment Operator Examination 
• Application for License to Practice Radiography 

Registering an X-ray Device

All portable x-ray facilities in Nebraska must be registered with the Office of Radiological Health. Regulations require that each facility/person with an x-ray apply for registration within 30 days following the start of operation. 

Steps for registration:

1. Submit an NRH-9 - Application for Registration of Services for Radiation Generating Equipment.
2. Pay the fee - See 180 NAC 18.
3. Submit appropriate training documentation 
4. Submit documentation of 6 months of on-the-job (OTJ) training

Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment

Regulatory Guide 6.2 -Guide For The Preparation Of A Radiation Protection And Safety Program For Use Of Radiation Machines In The Healing Arts

• Portable or mobile x-ray equipment must be used only for examinations where it is.
• Mobile x-ray equipment is mounted on a permanent base with wheels and/or casters for moving while completely assembled. 
• Portable x-ray equipment is designed to be hand-carried. [180 NAC 6-002 – X-ray equipment]
• Portable or mobile x-ray equipment must be used only for examinations where it is not feasible to transfer the patient(s) to a stationary x-ray installation. [180 NAC 6- 003.01, item 1.i.(3)]
• During the exposure, the operator:
• Must be positioned so that his/her exposure is as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA)[180 NAC 4-004.02]
• Must wear lead apron, gloves if necessary, or be protected by other shielding; [See 180 NAC 6-003.01, item 1.] and
• Should never be in line with the direct beam.

Disclaimer: The information in this document is solely for reference material. Regulations change often. To be sure of the most up-to-date laws, contact your local and state agencies.

Additional Resources

Professional & Occupational Licensure Division

301 Centennial Mall South, PO Box 94986

Lincoln, NE 68509

(402) 471-4915

Nebraska Radiology License

HHS Regulation and Licensure

X-Ray Program

P.O. Box 95007

Lincoln, Nebraska 68509-5007

(402) 471-0563