Becoming a Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist in Texas requires successfully navigating a two-part credentialing process that establishes both national certification and state licensure. A CT Technologist operates advanced scanning equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body, which physicians use to diagnose medical conditions and injuries. The path involves achieving foundational professional status in medical imaging, obtaining a specific national CT credential, and securing the mandatory Texas license to practice.
Establish Your Foundational Certification
Entry into the CT specialization begins with achieving a primary certification in a general radiologic discipline. Candidates must first hold a credential from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiography (R.T.(R)), Nuclear Medicine Technology, or Radiation Therapy. This initial certification serves as the prerequisite to pursue the post-primary CT credential.
This foundational step requires completing an accredited associate’s or bachelor’s degree program in one of the approved disciplines. Programs accredited by an agency such as the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) ensure the curriculum meets national standards for entry-level practice. Graduating from an approved program confirms the candidate has mastered the core didactic and clinical competencies necessary for safe practice.
Complete Specialized CT Training and Clinical Experience
After obtaining the primary certification, the next step is to qualify for the ARRT post-primary Computed Tomography examination. This involves specialized didactic coursework and documented hands-on clinical experience to gain an in-depth understanding of the physics and patient care unique to CT imaging.
The didactic component requires a minimum of 16 hours of structured education specific to computed tomography principles. This coursework covers CT physics and instrumentation, cross-sectional anatomy, image acquisition and post-processing, and comprehensive radiation safety protocols. Candidates must also perform and document a minimum of 125 specific CT procedures under professional supervision. These clinical procedures must be completed within the 24 months immediately preceding the application for the CT certification exam.
Achieve National ARRT Certification in Computed Tomography
Completion of the structured education and clinical experience makes the technologist eligible to apply for the official national certification in computed tomography. This post-primary credential, designated as R.T.(CT), is awarded after successfully passing the ARRT Computed Tomography examination. The application process involves submitting verification of all completed education and clinical requirements to the ARRT for approval.
The examination is a comprehensive, computer-based assessment consisting of 165 scored questions designed to evaluate the technologist’s mastery of the specialized field. The content is organized into four major domains: Patient Care, Safety, Image Production, and Imaging Procedures. Achieving a passing score results in the national professional credential, which is a mandatory precursor to securing the required state license in Texas.
Secure Your Texas Medical Board License
Practicing as a CT Technologist in Texas requires obtaining a General Medical Radiologic Technologist (MRT) license, a requirement managed by the Texas Medical Board (TMB). This state-level licensure is a separate legal mandate from the national ARRT certification. The TMB application process begins with submitting a formal application and paying the required fee, which is approximately $80 for a General MRT license.
Applicants must provide proof of their ARRT(CT) certification to the TMB, demonstrating they have met the nationally recognized standards for the profession. They must also successfully complete a mandatory Jurisprudence Examination, which tests knowledge of the laws and rules governing radiologic technology practice in Texas. The primary focus is on securing the full, unrestricted MRT license that permits independent practice within the state’s healthcare facilities.
Maintaining Credentials and Career Outlook
Maintaining professional standing requires ongoing compliance with both national and state continuing education (CE) requirements. The national ARRT certification operates on a biennial cycle, requiring technologists to complete a specified number of CE credits to renew their registration. The Texas TMB generally accepts the successful renewal of the ARRT certification as satisfying its own CE requirements for the MRT license.
A state mandate requires technologists to complete a specific course on human trafficking prevention as part of their biennial license renewal process.
CT Technologists in Texas work in diverse settings, including large hospital systems, dedicated outpatient imaging centers, and specialized clinics. The career outlook in Texas is positive, with an average annual salary typically falling within the range of $95,000 to $117,000, depending on location and years of experience.