Most MRI scans take about 30–60 minutes in the scanner, but the full visit can range from roughly 1 to 2 hours including check‑in and prep.

How long an MRI usually takes

  • Typical MRI exam time: about 30–60 minutes of actual scanning.
  • Overall time at the facility: often 60–120 minutes including forms, metal screening, changing clothes, positioning, and post‑scan checks.
  • Shorter scans: some focused joint or spine MRIs can be as quick as 15–30 minutes.
  • Longer scans: complex studies (heart, abdomen, multiple body parts, or with contrast) can last 60–90 minutes, sometimes up to about 2 hours.

Time by body part (approximate)

These are common ranges (your own appointment may be a bit shorter or longer):

  • Brain/head: about 30–60 minutes.
  • Lumbar spine: about 30–60 minutes (45–90 minutes if contrast is used).
  • Knee: about 30–60 minutes.
  • Shoulder: roughly 15–45 minutes.
  • Ankle: around 40–60 minutes.
  • Breast: about 30–60 minutes, plus up to ~30 minutes more if IV contrast is used.
  • Cardiac (heart): often close to 90 minutes.
  • Abdomen/pelvis: roughly 30–90 minutes, occasionally up to 2 hours depending on how detailed it needs to be.

What can make it longer or shorter

Several factors change how long your MRI takes:

  • Body part and complexity: More complex areas (heart, abdomen, multiple regions) need more image sequences, which adds time.
  • Use of contrast dye: If you receive an IV contrast agent, time is added for placing the IV and running extra scan sequences.
  • Need to repeat images: If you move, if there is an artifact, or if a sequence fails, the technologist may repeat parts of the scan.
  • Newer “fast scan” techniques: Some centers use advanced software to shorten MRI time without losing image quality.
  • Your ability to stay still: Staying very still helps avoid repeats and keeps the scan closer to the original estimate.

What it feels like while you wait it out

Many people are surprised by how still they have to lie, but also by how routine the whole process is.

  • It’s loud: You will hear rhythmic knocking, buzzing, and whirring; you usually get earplugs or headphones.
  • You’re monitored: You get a call button or squeeze ball to alert staff if you need a break.
  • People cope in different ways: Some close their eyes the entire time, some imagine music or patterns in the sounds, and some even doze off if they’re comfortable enough.

“I always give patients a longer estimate than the appointment will actually take… If it’s 30 minutes, I tell them 45. That way they leave satisfied.”

That comment from a technologist echoes real‑world practice: you’ll often be quoted a slightly longer time so you’re pleasantly surprised if it’s quicker.

Quick planning tips

  • Block off at least 1.5–2 hours in your schedule, even if the scan itself is supposed to be 30–45 minutes.
  • Ask when you book: “How long will my specific MRI likely take, including contrast and prep?”—they can give you the most accurate estimate for your exam type and equipment.

TL;DR: For most people wondering “how long does a MRI take?” , expect about 30–60 minutes in the machine and plan on roughly 1–2 hours total from arrival to walking out.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.