Achieving X-ray certification, often described as becoming a registered radiologic technologist, is required to demonstrate competence in medical imaging. The certification process verifies that an individual meets defined standards of knowledge, skill, and ethics necessary to perform procedures safely. This professional recognition is a prerequisite for legal practice in most healthcare settings, where patient safety and quality of care are concerns. The path involves formal education, hands-on clinical experience, and a national examination.
Understanding the Types of X-Ray Certifications
The initial step in this career path involves identifying the specific scope of practice desired within the field of radiologic technology. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is the primary national certifying body, offering a range of credentials that define a technologist’s qualifications. The most comprehensive certification is the Registered Technologist in Radiography, or RT(R), which qualifies an individual to perform a wide variety of general diagnostic X-ray procedures.
The ARRT also offers certifications in post-primary disciplines, such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Mammography. These specialized credentials are typically pursued after obtaining the initial RT(R) certification and require additional focused education and clinical experience. Some states recognize a Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography (LXMOs). These limited scope professionals are generally restricted to performing X-rays on specific anatomical regions, such as the chest or extremities.
Meeting the Educational Prerequisites
A certified radiologic technologist must complete a formal education program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). JRCERT is recognized as the agency responsible for accrediting educational programs in the radiologic sciences, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for quality and student outcomes. This accreditation is a non-negotiable requirement for eligibility to sit for the national certification examination.
Most candidates for the RT(R) credential pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree (typically two years) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree (four years). The classroom portion covers a broad curriculum essential for practice, including patient care, radiation physics, image production, anatomy, and radiographic positioning. Graduates must demonstrate proficiency in these theoretical subjects before moving into the hands-on phase of their training.
Completing Clinical Training Requirements
An accredited educational program integrates a substantial hands-on component, involving supervised clinical hours at affiliated healthcare facilities. This practical training is designed to translate academic knowledge into technical competence and ensure proficiency in a real-world environment. Students often complete approximately 1,700 to 2,500 hours of clinical experience over the course of their education.
During these hours, the student technologist practices patient positioning techniques and operates X-ray equipment under supervision. This training develops skills in radiation safety protocols, equipment manipulation, and patient communication. Successful completion of these practical requirements confirms that the student is prepared to provide safe and effective patient care upon graduation.
Preparing for the Certification Examination
Once educational and clinical requirements are nearing completion, candidates must prepare for the national certification examination. The ARRT publishes detailed content specifications, or exam outlines, for each discipline, which serve as the definitive guide for preparation. These documents break down the examination content into major categories, such as patient care, safety, and image production.
Effective study involves using these specifications to structure review and utilizing practice tests to simulate the exam experience. Since the examination is computer-based and timed, regularly taking practice tests helps build confidence and improve time management skills for the actual test day.
The National Certification Examination Process
The administrative phase of certification begins with applying for eligibility to the ARRT after all educational and clinical requirements have been met. Once approved, the candidate receives an examination window, typically 365 days, during which they must schedule and take the test at a designated testing center. A fee, approximately $225 for a primary certification application, is required to cover the processing and examination administration.
The examination is administered in a computer-based format and is primarily composed of multiple-choice questions. To pass, candidates must achieve a scaled score of 75 or higher. A preliminary score is often provided immediately upon completion.
Obtaining State Licensure to Practice
National certification from the ARRT is a distinct process from obtaining a state license, which is the legal authorization required to practice. Over 75% of states have laws requiring a license before an individual can legally work as a radiologic technologist. The license is granted by the specific state’s medical or radiation board, and the application is submitted directly to that state agency.
Many states accept ARRT certification and a passing score on the national examination as the primary basis for granting a license. However, some states may impose additional requirements, such as jurisprudence exams on state-specific laws and regulations. Candidates must research the specific state’s licensing board requirements to ensure compliance before beginning employment.
Maintaining Certification and Continuing Education
Maintaining the professional credential over a career requires adherence to ongoing requirements established by the ARRT, which ensures that technologists keep their knowledge current. Certification and registration must be renewed annually, but the continuing education (CE) requirement operates on a biennial, or two-year, cycle. Most registered technologists are required to complete a minimum of 24 ARRT-approved Category A or A+ CE credits every two years.
The two-year CE period, known as a biennium, ends on the last day of the month before the technologist’s birth month. These activities can include approved online classes, self-study modules, or lectures at professional meetings, and they must be earned within the designated biennium. Compliance with the ARRT’s Standards of Ethics and meeting the Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQR) every 10 years (for those certified after 2011) are mandatory components of maintaining a valid certification.