Career roadmap
How to Become a Radiologic Technologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a radiologic technologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a radiologic technologist: (1) complete prerequisites, (2) finish an accredited radiography program, (3) pass the ARRT exam, (4) get your state license, (5) specialize. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a radiologic technologist
Complete prerequisites
Take anatomy, physiology, math and English courses required for admission.
Finish an accredited radiography program
Two-year programs combine classes with clinical rotations in hospitals.
Pass the ARRT exam
Earn the R(ARRT) credential.
Get your state license
Apply for licensure in the state where you plan to work.
Specialize
Cross-train into CT, MRI, mammography, IR or move into lead and management roles.
Education and training requirements
Most radiologic technologists complete an associate degree from a program accredited by the JRCERT, then pass the ARRT radiography exam. Certificate programs exist for people who already hold a degree, and bachelor’s programs are common for those who want leadership roles.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- ARRT Radiography (R): The national credential most employers and states require.
- State radiologic technologist license: Required in most states, usually based on the ARRT exam.
- BLS/CPR: Required by nearly all hospitals.
- ARRT post-primary credentials: Specialty certifications such as CT, MRI and mammography.
Skills to build now
Start with patient positioning, exposure technique selection, and radiation protection (alara), and practice communication with anxious patients and attention to detail. Learning the radiologic technologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Student Technologist: Learn positioning and technique in clinical rotations.
- Staff Radiologic Technologist: Perform general X-ray, portables and fluoroscopy.
- CT, MRI or Mammography Technologist: Earn a post-primary credential and specialize.
- Lead Technologist or Imaging Manager: Supervise staff, quality and department operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Radiologic Technologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an X-ray tech?
Most people complete a two-year associate degree program, then pass the ARRT exam.
How long does it take to become a radiologic technologist?
Most people need about 2 years of training. Most radiologic technologists complete an associate degree from a program accredited by the JRCERT, then pass the ARRT radiography exam. Certificate programs exist for people who already hold a degree, and bachelor’s programs are common for those who want leadership roles.
Do you need a degree to be a radiologic technologist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for radiologic technologists?
Common credentials include ARRT Radiography (R), State radiologic technologist license, BLS/CPR, and ARRT post-primary credentials. Most states license or certify radiologic technologists, usually requiring graduation from an accredited program and the ARRT radiography exam. Requirements vary by state.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2034 (Radiologic technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Radiologic technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.