This study was intended to show the acceptance of the x-ray certificate ("Röntgenpass") by patients since its introduction 3 1/2 years ago. The study revealed that only 24.3% were informed about this certificate, although 69.7% of all patients had already had an x-ray examination during this period. 6.5% of the patients in the study had this certificate. To avoid unnecessary x-ray examinations all radiologists should inform their patients about this certificate and should make it available to interested persons.