A career as a Radiology Technologist (Rad Tech) involves operating complex imaging equipment to create diagnostic images used by physicians to diagnose illness and injury. The role requires specialized technical skills combined with dedication to patient care and radiation safety. Becoming a certified and licensed Rad Tech involves completing a rigorous educational program, passing a national certification examination, and securing official approval from the state where you intend to practice.
Educational Prerequisites and Program Accreditation
The foundation for a career in radiologic technology begins with formal education. The most common entry point is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, typically taking two years. Some technologists pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, which may take four years. Regardless of the degree level, the curriculum covers essential topics such as anatomy, medical terminology, radiation physics, and patient positioning.
Attending a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is mandatory for eligibility to take the national certification exam. The JRCERT is the only organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for accrediting these programs. Accreditation ensures the program meets strict standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical experience. Program completion certifies that the student has met the necessary academic and clinical competency requirements.
Earning National Certification
The primary professional hurdle after graduation is passing the certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT credential, Registered Technologist in Radiography (R.T.(R)), is the foundational credential recognized across the United States. To qualify, candidates must have earned at least an associate degree and successfully completed an ARRT-approved educational program.
The ARRT exam is a computer-based test consisting of approximately 200 questions, typically completed in four hours. The content assesses knowledge across four major areas: patient care, safety, image production, and procedures. Achieving a passing score demonstrates competency in applying technical knowledge and adhering to radiation protection standards. Candidates must also meet the ARRT Standards of Ethics, which includes demonstrating good moral character and professional conduct.
Applying for State Licensure
State licensure is a separate, necessary step that grants legal permission to practice radiologic technology within a specific geographic area. While ARRT certification is a national standard, state licensing is governed by individual state laws and regulations. More than 75% of states require a separate license before a technologist can begin working.
Many states use ARRT certification as a basis for granting a license, making the national credential a prerequisite for state approval. The specific application process varies, requiring applicants to submit formal forms and pay associated fees to the state’s regulatory board. Requirements often include a criminal background check and, in some jurisdictions, passing a jurisprudence examination to demonstrate knowledge of state-specific laws. Technologists must contact the state’s licensing agency directly to ensure compliance with all local requirements.
Maintaining Registration and Continuing Education
Maintaining the professional credential requires ongoing learning and adherence to ethical standards. Technologists must renew their ARRT registration annually to keep their R.T.(R) status active. This renewal process includes attesting to compliance with the ARRT Rules and Regulations and the Standards of Ethics.
A major component of maintaining certification is completing Continuing Education (CE) requirements, which ensures technologists keep their knowledge and skills current. Technologists must earn 24 approved CE credits every two years, a period known as a biennium. These credits must be obtained through ARRT-approved activities, and failure to meet the requirements can result in the loss of the national credential.
Advancing Your Career with Additional Certifications
After obtaining the initial R.T.(R) certification, technologists can pursue advanced credentials to specialize and expand career opportunities. These post-primary certifications allow focus on specialized imaging modalities, often leading to increased responsibility and earning potential. Common advanced certifications include Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Mammography (M).
Earning a post-primary credential typically requires completing structured education and documented clinical experience in the new modality. The structured education requirement is often satisfied by completing 16 hours of instruction specific to the new discipline. The technologist must then pass a secondary, specialized ARRT examination for that modality to officially earn the new credential.