Minnesota Portable X-ray Regulations

The Minnesota Department of Health runs the state’s radiation and x-ray program. The program is divided by machine type:

• Chiropractic
• Dental 
• Industrial 
• Medical
• Veterinary

X-ray License in Minnesota

To obtain a license in Minnesota to operate a portable x-ray, you must do the following:

• Complete the registration application
• Include a $25.00 money order or cashier’s check payable to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and mail it with the registration application. 
• MDH recommends sending it by Certified Mail.
• MDH will review the registration application and send a letter by mail or email to the applicant regarding the next steps and payment to ARRT.
• After receiving notification from MDH, the applicant will pay the ARRT fee of $150.00 by credit card, debit card, or gift card on the ARRT website.

Registering an X-ray Device

Facilities in Minnesota with portable x-ray equipment must be registered with the Minnesota Department of Health, Radiation Control, X-ray Unit. 

X-ray registration fees cover the costs of running a statewide registration, compliance, and education program. The fees are approved by the legislature and are mandated under Minnesota Statute 144.121.

All equipment and facility notifications should be made through the online registration system.

Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment

The Hand-held Dental X-ray Equipment Information Notice contains all regulations for handheld and portable x-rays that include:

• Safety and radiation officer responsibilities
• Quality assurance
• Calibration requirements
• Procedure and safety instructions

Chiropractic x-rays have separate rules that include:

• Individuals who perform specific duties that include more extensive use of the x-ray equipment than other staff should be evaluated independently to ensure they are not likely to exceed the 10% annual dose.

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.

Here are the applicable rules for medical x-rays in Minnesota.

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

• Department of Health Radiation Control
• X-ray Laws and Rules

Minnesota Radiology License 

Radiation Control Unit

Minnesota Department of Health

P.O. Box 64975

St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0975

(651) 215-5800