---
title: Wisconsin Portable X-ray Regulations
description: The State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services manages all x-ray personnel licensing in the state.
---

[Maven Imaging Digital X-ray Learning Hub ](https://www.mavenimaging.com/blog)

# [Wisconsin Portable X-ray Regulations](https://www.mavenimaging.com/blog/wisconsin-portable-x-ray-regulations)

 Written by [Chad Hutchison](https://www.mavenimaging.com/blog/author/chad-hutchison) | Dec 15, 2022 3:15:59 PM

The State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services manages all x-ray personnel licensing in the state. 

## X-ray License in Wisconsin

[Wis. Stat. § 462](https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/462.pdf), requires that any person who operates a portable x-ray machine, and is not exempt from the law, shall obtain a license or permit to perform radiography or limited-scope radiographic procedures.

**Requirements**

- Be at least 18 years of age
- Pass required exam (Visit the ARRT Examination site for information)

For more information, visit the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services [Licensing page](https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/RadiographerLicensed/Default.aspx).

## Registering an X-ray Device

Wisconsin works to minimize the public's unnecessary exposure to radiation by inspecting and registering all x-ray for compliance with state radiation protection regulations.

## Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment

State Of Wisconsin, Department Of Health Services, Division Of Public Health, Bureau Of Environmental And Occupational Health, [Radiation Protection Section](https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/publications/p01639a.docx).

Specific regulations for [portable and mobile x-ray machines](https://store.mavenimaging.com/collections/mobile-x-ray-machine):

- DHS 157 defines mobile x-ray equipment as mounted on a permanent base with wheels and/or casters for moving while completely assembled; portable x-ray equipment is defined as hand-carried. Battery-operated, hand-held dental x-ray devices must be approved by DHS prior to use.
- The x-ray machine operator must be positioned so that his/her exposure to scatter radiation is as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). *The operator shall remain 2 meters (6.5 feet) or more away from the tube and patient unless behind a barrier. The operator should never be in line with the direct beam.
- If the x-ray machine operator must be closer than 2 meters (6.5 feet) from the patient or tube, the operator must wear a lead apron. Lead aprons must be available at any location where a mobile or portable device is used, i.e., typically aprons are stored with or on a mobile or portable device.
- If using a portable or mobile device in the same location for more than one week, the equipment is considered stationary and must meet all the requirements of a stationary unit.
- No person may hold the x-ray tube housing during the exposure. A stand or other means of support shall be used during the exposure. There is the possibility of electric shock from improper grounding if the machine is held.

 

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

**Bureau of Health Service Professions**

Division of Board Services

Wisconsin Dept. of Regulation and Licensing

P.O. Box 8935

Madison, WI 53708-8935

**Wisconsin Radiology License**

Radiation Protection Section

P.O. Box 2659

Madison, Wisconsin 53701-2659

(608) 267-4797

[View full post](https://www.mavenimaging.com/blog/wisconsin-portable-x-ray-regulations)

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