Tennessee Portable X-ray Regulations

The Department of Environment and Conservation manages the registration and regulation of portable x-ray equipment. The Board of Health handles all licensing. 

X-ray License in Tennessee

The Tennessee Board of Health, Board of Radiologic Imaging and Radiation Therapy oversees operator licenses. LARS is the Tennessee Department of Health online Licensure and Regulatory System. This is where you can obtain a new license or renew an existing one.

Registering an X-ray Device

Any person or business having possession of a radiation machine or accelerator are required to register with the Tennessee Division of Radiological Health (DRH).

• Registration of X-Ray Producing Equipment - Form RHS 8-4 CN-0724

Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment

Rules Of Tennessee Department Of Environment and Conservation - Division Of Radiological Health - Chapter 0400-20-06 - Use Of X-Ray Apparatus

• Mobile means x-ray equipment mounted on a permanent base with wheels and/or casters for moving while completely assembled.
• Portable means x-ray equipment designed to be hand-carried.
• “Hand-held” means portable X-ray equipment that is specifically designed to operate when held in a person’s hand and is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Section 0400-20-06-.05 - Medical X-Ray Installations

• For mobile and portable x-ray systems, a method of control shall be provided that will permit the operator to stand at least 2 meters from the patient, primary beam, and tube head assembly.

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.

Amendment for Hand-held X-rays

Additional Resources

Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners 

Cordell Hull Bldg. 3rd floor

Nashville, TN 37247-1010

(615) 741-3111

Tennessee Radiology License 

Division of Radiological Health

L&C Annex, 3rd Floor

401 Church St.

Nashville, Tennessee 37243-1532

(615) 532-0364