Updated November 10, 2026 · By the MRIScanNearMe.com Team
Quick answer: Most people can eat normally and take their usual medicines before an MRI unless the imaging center gives different instructions. Wear metal-free clothing or expect to change into a gown, leave jewelry at home, and tell staff about any implants, devices, tattoos or pregnancy. According to MedlinePlus, the scan usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, though it may take longer.
An MRI is painless, but the magnet is powerful, so a little preparation goes a long way. Knowing what to wear, what to tell the staff and what the scan feels like can make the day calmer and help you get clear images on the first try. Here is a plain-language checklist built from guidance by MedlinePlus (NIH), Mayo Clinic and RadiologyInfo.org. If you still need to book, you can compare MRI centers near you first.
Can I eat or drink before an MRI?
Usually yes. Mayo Clinic advises that you can eat as you normally would and keep taking your usual medicines unless you are told otherwise. That "unless" matters: some exams, especially certain abdominal scans, come with fasting rules. MedlinePlus notes you may be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6 hours before the scan, and RadiologyInfo.org points out that food and drink guidelines vary between facilities.
The simplest step is to ask the imaging center when you book: "Do I need to fast, and should I take my regular medications?" Their instructions for your specific exam always come first.
What should I wear to an MRI?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with no metal. MedlinePlus suggests clothing without zippers or snaps, such as sweatpants and a t-shirt, and many centers will ask you to change into a hospital gown. RadiologyInfo.org adds that clothing with metallic fibers cannot be worn in the scanner, which can include some athletic wear.
Before the scan you will be asked to remove items such as:
- Jewelry, watches, hairpins and wigs
- Eyeglasses, hearing aids and removable dental work
- Underwire bras and makeup or cosmetics that contain metal
- Credit cards, keys, phones and pens
This is not just about image quality. MedlinePlus explains that jewelry, watches, credit cards and hearing aids can be damaged, and that objects like pens and pocketknives can fly across the room. Leaving valuables at home makes check-in faster.
What should I tell the technologist before my MRI?
Tell them about anything metal or electronic in or on your body, plus a few health details. You will usually fill out a safety questionnaire. According to MedlinePlus and Mayo Clinic, be sure to mention:
- Pacemakers, defibrillators, nerve stimulators or drug infusion pumps
- Artificial heart valves, brain aneurysm clips or vascular stents
- Cochlear (inner ear) implants
- Artificial joints, pins, screws, plates or staples
- An IUD
- Past work with sheet metal or any metal fragments, which may call for a check for metal in the eyes
- Tattoos or permanent makeup, since some dark inks contain metal
- Kidney or liver problems, which can affect whether you receive contrast
- Pregnancy, or breastfeeding if contrast is planned
Having an implant does not automatically rule out an MRI. RadiologyInfo.org notes that most orthopedic implants pose no risk, but the technologist still needs to know. Many devices are certified as MRI-safe, and the team will check before you go in. If your doctor has ordered a scan with dye, our guide to MRI with or without contrast explains what that involves.
What does an MRI feel like, and how long does it take?
The scan itself does not hurt. You lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner, and the main job is to hold still, because, as Mayo Clinic explains, movement can blur the images. MedlinePlus says the table may feel hard or cold, and you can ask for a blanket or pillow.
Expect noise. The machine makes loud tapping, thumping and humming sounds while it takes pictures. Earplugs or headphones with music help, and an intercom lets you talk with the technologist at any time. Many centers also give you a call button or squeeze ball.
Timing depends on the body part and the number of image sets. MedlinePlus says most scans last about 30 to 60 minutes but may take longer, and Mayo Clinic describes a range from 15 minutes to more than an hour. A focused exam such as a lower back MRI has its own typical length, so ask the center what to expect for yours. If you are booking for back or joint pain and still looking for a specialist, PainDocNearMe.com lists pain physicians by location.
What if I'm claustrophobic or anxious?
Say so when you book, not on the day of the scan. MedlinePlus notes that your provider may prescribe medicine to help you feel sleepy and less anxious, or suggest an open MRI, where the machine is not as close to your body. RadiologyInfo.org adds that if you take any relaxation medicine, you should arrange a ride home.
Some facilities offer wide-bore or open scanners, and the differences are covered in our comparison of open MRI vs wide-bore MRI for claustrophobia. You can also look for centers by area, for example on our Michigan MRI locations or Texas MRI centers pages.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before an MRI?
Usually not. Mayo Clinic says most people can eat normally and take their usual medicines unless told otherwise. Some exams do require fasting, and MedlinePlus notes you may be asked not to eat or drink for 4 to 6 hours. Follow the instructions from your imaging center.
Can I wear my own clothes during an MRI?
Sometimes. If your clothes have no zippers, snaps or metallic fibers, some centers will let you keep them on, and sweatpants and a t-shirt are a common choice. Many centers still ask everyone to change into a gown, so plan for that.
Can I have an MRI if I have a tattoo or a metal implant?
Often yes, but you must tell the staff first. Most orthopedic implants pose no risk, and many devices are certified as MRI-safe. Some dark tattoo inks contain metal, so mention tattoos and permanent makeup on your safety form.
How long does an MRI take?
Most MRI scans last about 30 to 60 minutes, according to MedlinePlus, and some take longer. The exact time depends on the body part and how many image sets your doctor ordered. Plan extra time for check-in and changing.
Can I drive myself home after an MRI?
Yes, if you were not given medicine to relax you. You can usually return to normal activities right after the scan. If you took a sedative or relaxation medicine, arrange for someone to drive you home.
Find an MRI near you
Once you know what to expect, the next step is choosing a center that fits your schedule, comfort needs and budget. Search MRI centers near you by state and city, then call ahead to confirm any prep instructions for your specific exam.
Sources: MedlinePlus (NIH): MRI scan; Mayo Clinic: MRI; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA): Body MRI.
This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor about which scan is right for you.